The Women’s Development Committee (WDC) seats of five constituencies have been confirmed before the election to be held on August 7.
Elections Commission of the Maldives (ECM) had scheduled the WDC elections of 10 constituencies for August 7, as the required number of candidates were not elected for the constituencies during the elections held on April 10. ECM revealed upon reopening candidacy for the constituencies, the WDC seats of five constituencies have been confirmed as the number of candidates contesting the election is equal to the number of vacancies. As such, ECM revealed WDC seats of Maabaidhoo in Laamu Atoll, Fulhadhoo in Baa Atoll, Raiymandhoo in Meemu Atoll, Rakeedhoo in Vaavu Atoll and Vashafaru in Haa Alifu Atoll have been secured.
ECM stated the re-election on August 7 will be held for 4 constituencies, including Nolhivaram in Haa Dhaalu Atoll, Dhiffushi in Kaafu Atoll, Feridhoo in Alifu Alifu Atoll and Kendhikulhudhoo in Noonu Atoll. ECM said the vacant WDC seat in Neykurendhoo, Haa Dhaalu Atoll would be opened again as there are no candidates for the seat.
The April 10 election was the first time WDC members were elected in the Maldives. A total of 1,670 candidates contested in the WDC election held on April 10.