Elections Commission of the Maldives (ECM) has stated there is no prejudice involved in the proposed amendments to the Political Parties Act.
Speaking at the inauguration of the discussions held with political parties regarding the amendments, President of ECM Ahmed Shareef said the amendments are not being brought with the aim of taking action against a certain party or individual, nor was it commenced under the orders of a certain individual. Shareef said the aim of the amendments is strengthening the administration of political parties and addressing some of the issues faced by the parties. He noted the amendments were initiated by ECM for the benefit of all parties.
Shareef further noted ECM began working on the amendments to the Political Parties Act before the 2019 parliamentary elections, adding parties were provided the opportunity to submit any suggested amendments to the Act. He said the objective of holding a discussion with all parties regarding the amendments is to ensure the amendments are brought with input from all parties.
Some of the proposed amendments to the Political Parties Act include mandating the verification of all membership forms by the parties and enhancing the role of women in leadership positions. It also includes amendments to remove the obstacles faced in effective administration of the parties as well as amendments on the submission of audit and annual reports of the parties.