The Election Commission (EC)’s President Fuwad Thawfeek has stated that it would be most beneficial for the Maldives to hold the presidential and parliamentary elections simultaneously.
Fuwad’s comments come while President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, earlier on July 7th, said he would propose an amendment to the Constitution to merge the two elections after a referendum on the merger. Combining the two elections is the most advantageous option at the moment, but it can only be done if majority of the people who vote in the referendum want the change, as how the Constitution requires, he had said.
Speaking to AVAS, EC President Fuwad said the two elections should be conducted simultaneously, considering the Maldives’ economic situation and the high cost of elections.
"It will certainly reduce the cost of elections significantly. It will also bring about positive changes in the voter turnout," he said.
Fuwad said the government currently spends over MVR 300 million on the parliamentary elections and two rounds of presidential elections. Therefore, if both elections can be combined, 45 percent of the cost can be reduced, saving approximately MVR 150 million, he said.
Fuwad emphasized that voter turnout was the most important aspect of an election. He believes that if the two elections are combined, the voter turnout will increase to 90 percent.
Fuwad also noted that combining the two elections would also greatly simplify public awareness campaigns and reduce logistical challenges. He said the consolidation of the elections will reduce he costs incurred to set up polling stations and address challenges faced in recruiting election officials.
EC President Fuwad Thawfeek
