The Joint Opposition has rejected the Elections Commission's (EC) decision on the primary ballots of political parties, calling it illegal and saying that the parties do not welcome the decision.

Speaking at a press conference held by the opposition coalition in the Jumhooree Party (JP) national campaign site in  capital city Malé. 

Member of Parliament for Maduvvari constituency Mohamed Ameeth said that the parties do not need to pay heed to the statement released by the EC, nor do they need to act on it.

The MP highlighted that it is a concerning matter that the faith citizens have for the EC to carry out the elections proceedings in full transparency and fairness, is being slandered due to the commission's impermissible actions.

Ameeth said that the commission does not hold the right to influence proceedings within political parties, adding that no law of the constitution gives the commission such authority.

The MP also said that EC, athough it believes itself to be the guardian of political parties, does not hold such a position.

Ameeth on behalf of the joint opposition parties condemned the illegal and unjust actions by the EC towards political parties.

The MP further warned members and employees of the EC who partake in such illicit actions, that strict action will be taken against them in the near future.

Ameeth highlighted that while the commission had said it will nullify any primary election that breaks the rules and regulations, said parties have been running for many years and these are not matters that should have been brought into the spotlight today.

Ameeth further said that only senior members of political parties hold the power to lay out party guidelines, not the EC. 

The Elections Commission had on Sunday said that candidates contesting in poltiical parties primary ballots must have certain qualifications to run for presidency, adding that it will annul candidacy of individuals who are legally unqualified to run for office.

According to the commission, candidates must possess qualifications that come under article 109 of the amended constitution which states that the elected President of the Maldives must not be one that has been convicted of a criminal offence or one for which punishment is prescribed in Islam or of fraud, deception or criminal breach of trust.

The EC's announcement makes all four opposition political leaders unapplicable for candidacy following the lengthy prison sentences issued on them.