Several opposition political parties have expressed their growing concern over the conduct of the Elections Commission (EC) and various government agencies in relation to the upcoming elections. The People’s Party of Maldives/Progressive National Congress (PPM/PNC), The Democrats, Maldives Reform Movement (MRM), Maldives National Party (MNP), and Jumhooree Party (JP) held a joint press conference on Sunday to voice their discontent.
Speaking to the press, PPM Vice President and MP Ahmed Shiyam accused the ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) of misusing state resources. Shiyam conveyed his dissatisfaction with the lack of any institutional response to these violations. The National Advisory Committee on Elections, comprising all political parties and institutions, has faced criticism for its prolonged failure to convene meetings. The MP added the committee has been reduced to a mere notice board, undermining its intended purpose.
The Democrats’ founder and West Henveiru MP Hassan Latheef highlighted the delay in registering his party. Despite granting approval on Sunday, the EC stated that the official permit would be issued only after the Eid holidays.
Expressing further scepticism over EC’s conduct, MP Latheef stated: “We still don’t believe that the Election Commission is going to give permission. We have not received permission yet. We have no confidence in the way the Elections Commission is currently operating.”
The MRM voiced concern regarding the party dissolution. The MRM has yet to decide about joining the opposition parties. However, they have expressed shared concerns about EC’s conduct, aligning themselves with the broader concerns raised by the opposition.
MNP Vice President and Villimale’ MP Ahmed Usham emphasised the importance of ensuring a presidential election conducted in a free and fair manner – a principle that must extend beyond the polling day. Shedding light on the commission’s responsibilities, MP Usham raised concerns about the EC’s incompetence in ensuring free and fair elections throughout the electoral process. The MNP Parliamentarian also raised concerns about the malfunctioning of the Independent Institutions Committee in parliament, attributing the current situation to its lack of effectiveness.
JP Council member and MP for Kendhoo Ali Hussain made serious allegations, asserting that certain EC members were operating as government agents. He cited the protracted registration process of The Democrats as evidence of the alleged government influence on the commission.