Elections Commission of Maldives (ECM) has commenced the distribution of ballot papers and administrative equipment to polling stations across the atolls in preparation for the upcoming parliamentary election.
Member of ECM Hassan Zakariyya said that the process commenced on March 16, involving the transportation of materials to various atolls such as Alifu Alifu, Alifu Dhaalu, Vaavu, Meemu Faafu, and Dhaalu by sea. Concurrently, he said that air delivery to Thaa, Laamu, Gaafu Alifu, Gaafu Dhaalu Atolls, and Addu City has also commenced. He also said that ballot boxes are scheduled to be delivered to Haa Alifu, Haa Dhaalu, Shaviyani, Noonu, Raa, Baa, and Lhaviyani Atolls on March 17.
Additionally, Zakariyya mentioned that all polling equipment will reach individual islands by March 19, with shipments to resorts, industrial islands, and overseas destinations completed by March 20.
ECM ensures the secure delivery of ballot papers, boxes, and security containers to the islands, under the supervision of the Maldives Police Service (MPS). With 284,663 eligible voters, over 600 ballot boxes will be placed to accommodate the parliamentary election, which sees 368 candidates contesting for seats across 93 constituencies.