The 2024 national budget proposal shows that the Elections Commission (EC) will receive MVR 1.15 billion, of which MVR 61 million will be earmarked for the 2024 parliamentary elections. EC Vice-President Ismail Habeeb confirmed to local media that the budget aligned with the amount requested by the commission, ensuring necessary resources for the electoral process.
One of the significant changes outlined in the budget is the redistricting plan for the 20th term of Parliament, which adds six constituencies, expanding the total number of Members of Parliament to 93. Among the most notable redistricting will be seen in Addu City, where Feydhoo, previously one constituency, will be divided into North Feydhoo and South Feydhoo. As a result, Maradhoo-Feydhoo will become part of North Feydhoo.
Hulhumalé, formerly a single constituency, will be split into three: North Hulhumalé, Central Hulhumalé, and South Hulhumalé. Furthermore, Baa Atoll will see the addition of the Hithaadhoo constituency, while Kaafu Atoll will add the Huraa constituency.
Meanwhile, the Democrats have proposed an amendment to cap the number of seats in parliament. If this amendment passes before the next parliamentary elections, the redistricting plans may revert to the current 87 constituencies. Currently, constituencies are organised with one representative for every 5,000 people within the population and two members for every atoll with a population of less than 5,000.
The Elections Commission of the Maldives, established in 2008 under the Elections Commission Act, remains an independent institution with the mandate to conduct and oversee all state elections, including public referendums. The commission is also responsible for monitoring the regulatory framework concerning the functioning of political parties.