Local Council Elections to Cost MVR 80 Million

The Elections Commission of the Maldives has projected that next year's Local Council and Women's Development Committee elections will require approximately MVR 80 million in funding. EC President Mohamed Zahid shared these details during an appearance on PSM's Raajje Miadhu program, noting that candidate registration will open on January 17, 2026, with the voting scheduled for March. 'We estimate that at least around 70 to 80 million Rufiyaa will be spent on this election,' Zahid stated. He emphasized that while elections represent a significant financial undertaking, these resources are essential to maintain transparency and public trust in the democratic process. The commission plans to conduct all aspects of the council elections through in-person voting to prevent any potential interference, and Zahid affirmed that Maldivian elections have earned recognition and confidence from international observers. — Source fragments: