Elections Commission of Maldives (ECM) has urged interested candidates to file candidacies as early as possible, with a record number of hopefuls expected to enter the race for April’s local council and women’s development committee elections.
For the first time, nominations are being accepted exclusively through the Commission’s online MyPortal platform, marking a digital shift from previous paper-based submissions. Nominations opened 17 January at 8:30 am and will remain open until 3:30 pm on 1 February.
"Early submission gives candidates a crucial opportunity to correct any errors," emphasised ECM Assistant Director Vishah Saeed, noting that applicants whose forms are rejected before the deadline can resubmit—provided they act in time.
However, those who wait until the final days risk disqualification, as no corrections will be allowed after the deadline. The ECM has already identified issues in some submissions, particularly concerning criminal and debt clearance records, which now require lifetime disclosure—not just the past five years.
To streamline verification, the Maldives Correctional Service and Department of Judicial Administration have issued a standardised template, which must be uploaded as a single PDF. Candidates must also upload both sides of their national identity cards. Notifications of candidacy acceptance will be sent via the portal, email, and residential address, underscoring the need for accurate contact details.
With over 4,000 candidates contesting in the last local council elections, ECM has urged all applicants to act promptly, expecting similar numbers this time around as well.