Election Commission of the Maldives has informed Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) to refrain from handing the party ticket to any individual who is not eligible to contest in the upcoming presidential election.
In a letter sent to the Chairperson of MDP Hassan Latheef, the electoral body stated the authority has been receiving news via social media and party activists the party has decided to hold a primary election with former President Mohamed Nasheed.
Noting former President Mohamed Nasheed is sentenced to thirteen years in jail for terrorism charges, Elections Commission reminded MDP that any person convicted of a crime will not be eligible to contest in the presidential election. Moreover, elections commission stated the Anti-Terrorism Act notes anyone sentenced cannot participate in political activities. The commission has the authority to abolish any primary elections held with such a candidate, warned Elections Commission. Furthermore, the electoral body also said it will nullify the candidacy of individuals who cannot legally contest in the presidential election.
In the letter, the Commission urged to abide by the Political Party Act when conducting political party primaries highlighting primary elections cannot be held violating the laws and regulations and affirmed that any individual who is eligible to run for presidency must be given the opportunity to participate in party primaries.