MDP Pickup Rally: "re-registration process leaves many citizens unable to vote"

Former Hulhumale' MP Ali Niyaz has stated that the re-registration process was conducted in a manner that disenfranchised a significant number of voters.

Speaking at a rally held near the Bisburu area, Niyaz expressed significant concerns regarding the Elections Commission’s arrangements for the upcoming local council and Women’s Development Committee (WDC) elections. He noted that while ballot boxes were previously stationed in locations with as few as 250 registered voters, the Commission is adopting a different approach for the current elections.

"We will not place ballot boxes abroad. We will not place ballot boxes in resorts. They say this with such pride, yet what they are actually saying is that they have snatched away the public's right to vote," he said.

Speaking at a "Pickup" rally, National Congress member and President of the Kudahuvadhoo constituency, Shathir Abdul Rahman, alleged that the Elections Commission is under the direct influence of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. Shathir further claimed that the elections are being conducted while deliberately misleading the public about the ongoing processes.

"The confidential information that should accompany the council's ballot papers is unavailable. The legal requirement is for this information to be clearly explained prior to voting; however, the Elections Commission's actions have not aligned with this procedure," Shathir said.

Speaking at the gathering, MDP National Congress member Ahmed Saleem (Maaz Saleem) stated that merging the two elections could lead to a complete loss of public empowerment. Other speakers at the rally also voiced strong criticism regarding the Election Commission's handling of the upcoming referendum.