Women & Democracy has decided to establish a special committee to monitor and observe September’s presidential election.

In a press conference held on Thursday night, The NGO’s president Shafath Ahmed said that they established a committee to work closely with the citizens due to the importance of the election.

Shafath said that their aim is to make sure the election is conducted fairly.

“We are seeing the Elections Commission members as people who are biased towards a particular political party. Therefore, there is suspicion regarding the independence of the Elections Commission.”

The committee includes prominent attorney Mariyam Shunana and former Elections Commission President Fuad Thaufeeq.

Women & Democracy’s COO Aishath Shiza said that the current situation in Maldives compelled them to establish the committee. She also that the NGO is also focused on the nation as well as women empowerment and that therefore will work to uphold the rights of citizens.

She also expressed concern that Maldivian democracy is going backwards each and every day.