Vice President of the Elections Commission of the Maldives (ECM) Ismail Habeeb has highlighted the urgent need for additional election officials ahead of the upcoming parliamentary election.
In a post on X, Habeeb revealed that 6,000 individuals are required to serve as officials for the parliamentary election. He, however, said that only 5,240 individuals have submitted applications presently.
Additionally, Habeeb pointed out specific areas requiring more officials, including Kulhudhuffushi City, Addu City, Male' City, and certain islands in Vaavu Atoll. He emphasised that the deadline for applications is March 5, urging prospective applicants to submit theirs promptly.
The ECM has also announced an increase in salaries for officials involved in the parliamentary election, having already earmarked additional funds for the purpose. With the parliamentary election coinciding with Ramadan this year, the commission disclosed that officials will receive a Ramadan allowance of USD32. Moreover, in case the commission is unable to provide food and tea, officials will receive USD16 each for breaking their fast and USD6 for Taraweeh.
The ECM has also decided that training programmes for officials are slated to commence on February 24. Furthermore, this year's parliamentary elections are scheduled for March 17, with the commission arranging 608 ballot boxes for the election.