The Elections Commission of Maldives (EC) has revealed that they still need more officials to be active at polling stations in the Greater Malé Region during the fast-approaching parliamentary elections.

The commission revealed that even though applications have been opened for those who wish to be active as officials during the parliamentary polls, they have not found enough officials for the GMR.

Hence those who wish to work as officials at polling stations during the fast-approaching parliamentary elections, still have the opportunity to apply.

The application window for those interested in working as officials at polling booths during the People’s Majlis elections, is open until 1pm, March 27.

Speaking to RaajjeMV regarding the matter of selecting officials, Secretary General of EC Hassan Zakariyya revealed that they require at least 400 more officials to be active in the capital region.

However, he confirmed that they have found enough officials for outlying islands.

Hassan noted that they would have to announce once more if enough applications are not received. EC earlier revealed that if the required number of people are not available to work as officials, they will be accepting applications until a satisfactory number is reached.

Adding that training sessions are currently proceeding for officials, Hassan noted that a refresher programme will be carried out after the fasting month of Ramadan.

Those who are between 18 – 65 years of age are eligible to become officials.

Further, they must not hold any senior positions in any political parties or have worked in the parliamentary election campaigns of any candidates.

Other conditions include not being closely related to any candidate, as well as having the experience and knowledge required to carry out the tasks assigned to officials.

Candidates are required to not have any health conditions that could get in the way of their assigned tasks, not be involved in any criminal investigations, or be accused of a serious crime.

Students will not be eligible to become officials for the parliamentary polls.

All officials are required to undergo the required training sessions and those who do not complete these training sessions will not be selected.

The training sessions will proceed from March 16 – 28.

If an individual completes the required training to become an official at the polling booths and is appointed as the leader of the polling station on the voting day, they will be entitled to receive wages amounting to MVR 2,650.

If appointed as a helper at a polling center, they would be entitled to MVR 2,350 in wages and officials will receive up to MVR 2,250 in wages.

A reserve official will receive MVR 1,000 in wages.

The parliamentary polls are slated for 21 April 2024.