Elections Commission of Maldives (ECM) has revealed the finances needed to hold the local council elections have been finalised following discussions with Ministry of Finance and Parliamentary Committee on Independent Institutions.
Speaking regarding the upcoming elections, President of ECM Ahmed Shareef said funds for administrative costs has also been finalised as proposed, adding efforts are now underway to attain finances for awareness programmes.
ECM has decided to increase the number of ballot boxes to 178 compared with the previous elections. It is estimated the elections to cost the state about USD 4.5 million, according to ECM.
ECM has announced the local council elections will be held next April, with opportunity to submit nominations to be opened in February.