Maldives Joint Opposition Parties Presidential hopeful Ibrahim Mohamed Solih from the main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has revealed that a lot of complaints are being acknowledged regarding a delay in the processing of re-registration forms submitted at embassies by Maldivian citizens living abroad.

Solih, speaking to reporters after concluding his two-day campaign trip to Malaysia and Singapore, stated that complaints have surfaced following a delay in the processing of re-registration forms submitted to embassies in both countries by Maldivian citizens residing there.

Noting that this was a matter of great concern, Solih appealed on embassies to quicken the process of sending the re-registration forms submitted by residents living abroad to the Elections Commission.

“We are receiving frequent complaints regarding a delay in the processing of re-registration forms at embassies. We are concerned about this issue. Our request to embassies is to quicken the process of sending re-registration forms of these citizens to the Elections Commission and get the procedures done with as soon as possible. Else, those citizens who are ready to cast their votes, will face distresses.” Said Solih after concluding his trip to Singapore and Malaysia to meet the campaign officials there.

Solih appealed on all citizens living abroad to re-submit forms if necessary and carry out the process through a reliable source if they have any uncertainties on whether their re-registration has been completed or not.

Asides from meeting with campaign frontrunners during his trip, Solih had also met with foreign investors and discussed the Joint Opposition Parties policies with them.

The opposition candidate further stressed that the Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) as well as relevant institutions turning a blind eye to the matter of Elections Commission’s negligence towards some re-registration forms submitted at the commission, is a matter of grave concern and paves way for suspicions to arise.

“Relevant institutions need to investigate this matter. I believe a quick solution to this issue is the only way to ensure a transparent, free and fair election is carried out” said Solih.

Officials of the opposition coalition had even met with the HRCM to discuss the matter of the EC and the government infringing on the voting rights of particular groups.

The opposition has also revealed that more campaign activities have been planned and will proceed as planned following Solih’s return from his two-day campaign trip abroad. As such, the opposition is to host an event to put up posters in regions of the capital city Male’ and a trip to Thaa and Laamu atolls has also been planned for the opposition’s Presidential candidate.