The Election Commission of Maldives (ECM) has announced 602 ballot boxes will be placed for the upcoming parliamentary election, a slight reduction from the originally planned number.
Initially, ECM had planned to position 608 ballot boxes for the parliamentary election scheduled for March 17, 2024. However, following the rescheduling of the election to April 21, 2024, and considering changes in re-registration, the number of ballot boxes has been adjusted to 602.
Among these, 21 polling stations will be located in the greater Male' area, including 181 in Male' City, 51 in Hulhumale', and 9 in Villimale'. Additionally, 319 ballot boxes will be distributed across the atolls, and 3 countries overseas will host ballot boxes based on the number of registered voters in each location. Furthermore, 34 polling stations will be set up in resorts, and 5 ballot boxes will be placed in correctional facilities.
The countries selected for overseas ballot boxes are Trivandrum in India, Columbo in Sri Lanka, and Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia. These locations were chosen based on the number of individuals who re-registered to vote abroad, with a minimum requirement of 150 registered voters in each location.
ECM has extended the registration opportunity for individuals who were initially assigned to canceled ballot boxes due to insufficient re-registrations. These individuals can now register at the designated polling stations where new ballot boxes will be placed. Additionally, individuals have the option to register for another ballot box to maintain the confidentiality of their votes if they feel their initial designated boxes compromise their voting secrecy.
In conclusion, a total of 371 candidates are contesting across 93 constituencies in the upcoming 30th parliamentary election.