Elections Commission of the Maldives (ECM) has announced it has re-opened the opportunity for candidates to contest in a new round of elections for vacant seats in the Women's Development Committees. ECM initially made the decision to hold the second round of election after no candidates competed in the Women's Development Committees in 10 constituencies.
Secretariat General of ECM Hassan Zakariyya said it has decided to extend the deadline for the registration of candidates by seven more days since there are still four constituencies with no registered candidates. These constituencies are Neykurendhoo in Haa Dhaalu Atoll, Fulhadhoo in Baa Atoll, Rakeedhoo in Vaavu Atoll, and Raiymandhoo in Meemu Atoll. ECM has decided to allow candidates to compete for one of two vacant seats in Neykurendhoo and three out of five vacant seats in Rakeedhoo due to the low number of candidates vying for the seats, said Secretariat General Zakariyya.
Furthermore, some candidates have won seats in the Women's Development Committees in Maabaidhoo, Laamu Atoll, and Vashafaru, Haa Alifu Atoll, without an election due to the low number of candidates. The second round of Women's Development Committees Elections has been held in Nolhivaram in Haa Dhaalu Atoll, Dhiffushi in Kaafu Atoll, Feridhoo in Alifu Alifu Atoll, and Kendhikulhudhoo in Noonu Atoll.
Speaking to PSM News, Member of ECM Fuad Thaufeeq expressed concern over having to hold re-elections due to lack of candidates and said that ECM is discussing with the parliament on finding a legal solution to the problem.