The Elections Commission of Maldives (ECM) has reported that 381 individuals have applied to contest the upcoming parliamentary elections. The application submission period, running from January 30 to February 14. ECM said the validity of the forms can be confirmed once the validation process, particularly for those received in the final two days.
In accordance with the regulations, the ECM is obligated to notify applicants of its decision on the acceptance of the forms within 48 hours. The parliamentary elections for the 20th parliament will see the election of representatives for 93 constituencies, which is an increase of six constituencies compared to the ongoing 19th parliamentary assembly.
The Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) and Peoples' National Congress (PNC), the ruling coalition, are contesting in 90 seats, while the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) is participating in 89 seats. Additionally, the Maldives Development Alliance (MDA), Adhaalath Party (AP), Jumhooree Party (JP), Maldives National Party (MNP), and The Democrats are also competing in various constituencies.
ECM reaffirmed that there will be no further opportunity to submit forms for the parliamentary elections, and the commission has 14 days to contest an election, regardless of any potential postponements. The draw for candidates is scheduled for February 16, with candidates having the option to withdraw their nominations before that date.
The parliamentary elections are initially slated for March 17, but the date may change pending approval of the amendment to the General Elections Act. As per the amendment, if an election falls during Ramadan, it will be held 10 days after the end of the month.