Veyvah Council Seat Dispute: EC Counsel Warns High Court Ruling Could Destabilize Fundamental Electoral Principles!

The Elections Commission (EC) has told the Supreme Court that the High Court's ruling regarding the by-election for the M. Veyvah Island Council seat is a decision that will cause significant tremors to the fundamental principles of the entire electoral system.

During the appeal hearing for this case, the legal counsel representing the Elections Commission presented a detailed submission outlining the Commission's concerns regarding the High Court's ruling.

Speaking at the Supreme Court, the Elections Commission (EC) legal counsel stated that the High Court reached its verdict regarding the Veyvah Council election dispute without examining the actual ballot papers. The counsel further noted that the High Court failed to take into account the testimonies provided by both the EC and Novelty Printers, the company responsible for printing the ballot papers.

The Elections Commission's (EC) legal counsel further stated that if minor ink spots occurring during the printing of ballot papers are classified as invalid votes, it would have a detrimental impact on future elections. The lawyer warned that such a decision could affect the results of the 2026 local council elections and potential referendums, posing a risk of irreparable damage to the entire electoral system.

Characterizing the High Court's ruling as a violation of the fundamental principles governing the electoral system, the Elections Commission (EC) has petitioned the Supreme Court to overturn the decision, seeking a declaration that the ruling is unlawful.

Since court rulings on electoral disputes have long-term implications for future elections, the Supreme Court's decision in this case will be a landmark ruling for the Maldives' electoral system.

Unless the judges require further clarification on any matter, the next step in this case will be the delivery of the verdict.