Nasheed Backs Combined Presidential and Parliamentary Elections in Maldives

Former President of the Maldives, Mohamed Nasheed, has publicly supported the idea of combining the country’s presidential and parliamentary elections. This proposal, aimed at reducing state expenditure, was initially suggested by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu in July 2024. The move comes in response to the significant costs incurred during separate elections, with the last presidential election costing over MVR 180 million and the parliamentary election exceeding MVR 120 million. Nasheed endorsed the plan via a post on X, emphasizing the need for efficient governance. The constitutional amendment, submitted by Inguraidhoo MP Ibrahim Falah, seeks to synchronize the elections and adjust the parliamentary inauguration date to December 1st, starting in 2028. If approved, this would mark a significant shift in the Maldives' electoral process.