The Election Commission of the Maldives (ECM) has announced that foreign observers and monitors are invited to observe the upcoming local council and Women’s Development Committee elections scheduled for 4 April.
Applications for international observation will be accepted between 18 January and 18 February and are open to international organisations, foreign institutions, and individuals. Observers must be at least 18 years old and are strictly prohibited from engaging in campaigning or political activities. The move reflects the commission’s continued commitment to transparency in major electoral processes.
This year’s elections will include notable digital improvements, such as the online submission of candidate nominations. A total of 626 councillors will be elected across 133 island councils, with three members per island—including a council president and one female councillor—while 46 islands will elect five councillors each, including two women. In addition, 52 members will be elected to city councils.
Elections for Women’s Development Committees will align with the composition of local councils in both islands and cities, further strengthening women’s representation in local governance.
