Elections Commission of the Maldives (ECM) has urged political parties to ensure political activities adhere to the COVID-19 safety guidelines set by the Health Protection Agency (HPA).
ECM made the remarks in a statement issued in the wake of the protests led by the opposition coalition during an outbreak in the capital city. In the statement, ECM said protests and gatherings must be held within the boundaries set by law. ECM advised against holding gatherings that violate the safety guidelines, especially due to a possible second wave of an outbreak as the number of recorded cases are on the increase in the Greater Male' Region. ECM said all gatherings must adhere to the Public Health Act and safety guidelines set by the HPA during the State of Public Health Emergency announced in the country.
Vice President of ECM Ahmed Akram has previously urged all political parties to ensure safety in organising political activities. Additionally, Maldives Police Service (MPS) has also urged the public to refrain from gatherings that violate the guidelines as many individuals do not practice social distancing and do not wear face masks.
Maldives reported a total of 152 cases on July 30, which is the highest number of cases recorded after the ease of restrictions. The country had reported 137 new cases on July 28 and 61 new cases on July 29.