Elections Commission of the Maldives (ECM) has stated it is fully prepared for the parliamentary and Women’s Development Committee (WDC) by-elections to be held on February 5.
The parliamentary by-election for Komandoo constituency in Shaviyani Atoll and the WDC by-elections for Vilufushi, Thaa Atoll and Gemanafushi, Gaafu Alifu Atoll are set to be held on February 5. Speaking on the preparations for the by-elections, Secretary General of ECM Hassan Zakariyya said the commission is fully prepared for the by-election, noting all the required ballot boxes, papers, officials and other resources required for the by-election have been sent to the relevant locations. Highlighting the national interest in the Komandoo by-election, Zakariyya said the officials allocated for the Komandoo by-election are directly from ECM.
Zakariyya further noted the counting of votes will be carried out in the presence of all who wish to observe the counting process, although priority will be given for candidates, their representatives, officials from political parties and the media. He added the result from each island will be announced at the island itself, after which the overall result will be announced at the main headquarters of ECM in Male’.
Zakariyya further reminded all candidates and political parties that all campaign events must be concluded by 1800hrs on February 4. He noted any campaign activity carried out after the deadline will be illegal.
More than 3,300 people are eligible to vote in the parliamentary by-election for Komandoo constituency, which consists of Komandoo, Foakaidhoo and Maroshi. Six ballot boxes will be placed for the by-election.