MDP seeks recount of two ballot boxes

The main opposition, the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), has expressed overall satisfaction with the outcome of the recently concluded Local Council and Women’s Development Committee (WDC) elections, while confirming that it has formally requested a recount of two ballot boxes with identified irregularities.

During a press conference held on Monday concerning Saturday’s elections and the public referendum, MDP’s campaign manager and former Dhidhdhoo MP Abdulla Waheed said that although the party welcomed the results, discrepancies had been observed in specific ballot boxes.

"Our legal team is currently consulting with the Elections Commission regarding these issues. Specifically, we have submitted a request for a recount of the ballot boxes for the Hulhumalé Central constituency. Furthermore, our legal team is also investigating issues related to the number two ballot box placed in N. Manadhoo," Waheed said.

Preliminary results released by the Elections Commission (EC) show ruling PNC candidate Ahmed Shaneeh Haneef leading the Hulhumalé Central constituency council race with 917 votes. MDP candidate Safath Ahmed Zahir is close behind with 904 votes, while independent candidate Adam Asif is placed third.

Waheed stated that the party stands ready to pursue further legal avenues if required in relation to the disputed ballot boxes.

He also delivered sharp criticism of the electoral process, describing it as one of the most poorly organized and confusing in the country’s history, citing a significant lack of systematic planning.

Waheed further alleged that the Elections Commission’s arrangements undermined the integrity of the vote, accusing Commission President Mohamed Zahid of actions that compromised ballot secrecy.

"With less than 24 hours remaining before the polls, the President of the Elections Commission acted in a manner that violated the principle of vote secrecy and made statements that discouraged voters from participating. It is very clear to us that the actions of the Commission's President are being dictated by the direct influence and power of the government," Waheed stated.

He additionally claimed that the Elections Commission president was working to secure an electoral advantage for the ruling PNC, and called for his immediate resignation. Waheed also thanked party members and campaign teams for their efforts during both the local council elections and the public referendum.

Preliminary results from Saturday’s polls indicate that incumbent MDP mayors are leading in Malé, Addu, Fuvahmulah, Kulhudhuffushi, and Thinadhoo.

MDP candidates have also secured Women’s Development Committees's presidency across all five cities. Meanwhile, early results suggest that a majority of voters rejected the proposed constitutional amendment put forward by the current administration, which aimed to merge the country’s two main elections.