Maldives to hold polls in September

MALE: Maldives will hold presidential elections in September, the election commission has announced.

The commission has commenced preparatory works for the elections in September, said an official statement issued on Thursday, without mentioning the date of polling.

The announcement was welcomed by incumbent President Abdulla Yameen, who is at loggerheads with the opposition, including the self-exiled former President Mohamed Nasheed.

The poll body said it has begun engaging with relevant authorities to collect data and information required prior to elections.

It said that a second round, if necessary, would be held within 21 days from the election day.

The President’s Office welcomed the announcement and encouraged all relevant stakeholders to offer the elections commission their full, unreserved support for the conduct of their work. “Free, fair and credible elections are the foundation of our democracy and it is essential for continuity of our nation’s growth, stability and prosperity,” the statement said.

“The government of the Maldives extends its invitation to all international stakeholders to observe the electoral process,” it said, urging the global community to help bring back normalcy in the country.