The Elections Commission of the Maldives has concluded a nationwide civic engagement programme designed to strengthen democratic participation ahead of the Local Council and Women’s Development Committee elections. The initiative focused on educating citizens about the country’s democratic system, highlighting fundamental principles, civic rights and the mechanics of the electoral process.
Conducted between late November and early December, the campaign reached 36 islands across 12 administrative divisions, including major population centres such as Addu City and Fuvahmulah City. Sessions were tailored both to the general voting-age population and to youth groups, ensuring broad demographic engagement.
Shahula Ismail, a director at the Elections Commission, said the outreach efforts proved effective across the targeted regions. She noted that the varied formats resonated with participants and that attendance remained steady, with each session drawing between 60 and 90 individuals.
With the awareness drive complete, the commission has scheduled the elections for March 2026. The candidacy window will open in January, and officials estimate that administering the polls will require a budget of between USD 4.54 million and USD 5.19 million.