Live Updates from Presidential Elections 2023
Voting was briefly suspended following a series of disruptions in Rasdhoo Island of Alifu Alifu Atoll.
Polling began on schedule at 8 a.m. in Rasdhoo but was halted around 10 a.m. following the removal of two observers whose permits were revoked.
The Elections Commission (EC) revoked their permits for their participation in a candidate’s campaign.
Ismail Habeeb, Vice President of the EC, insisted that the removal did not necessitate the cessation of voting. However, the voting centre remained closed for over two hours.
Residents reported that the conflict started due to allegations that officials representing the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) were improperly removed from the voting centre. Videos on social media show people trying to force their way into the voting centre, resulting in police intervention.
Elsewhere, in Thulhaadhoo Island of Baa Atoll, voting was temporarily halted after an individual was found to have taken a photograph while voting.
Also, issues arose at the Special Needs Center in Guraidhoo island of Kaafu atoll, where residents were initially unable to vote but will be allowed to cast their ballots if registered, according to regulations.
