Info
Boundary Delimitation
BD001
Delimitation of constituencies
Question: Are constituencies delimited for election purposes?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: Each administrative division shall establish separate electoral constituencies. All members shall be elected from a separate electoral constituency.
Source: Constitution 2008, art. 72 (a): http://www.majlis.gov.mv/en/wp-content/uploads/Constitution-english.pdf (2018)
Verified: 2019/02/11
BD003
Criteria for drawing boundaries
Question: On what criteria are the boundaries drawn?
Answer(s):
a . "Equality" of population d . Conformity with local jurisdiction boundaries g . Other
Comments: Each administrative division shall establish separate electoral constituencies. A law shall specify the manner of determining the number of electoral constituencies in each administrative division and the boundaries of each electoral constituency. Such law shall specify the principles pursuant to which the population on each administrative division shall be divided into the separate electoral constituencies such that there is an approximately equal division of the population.
Source: Constitution 2008, art. 72 (a):http://www.majlis.gov.mv/en/wp-content/uploads/Constitution-english.pdf (2018)
Verified: 2019/02/11
BD005
Body responsible for drawing boundaries
Question: The body responsible for drawing the boundaries is:
Answer(s):
e . Electoral Management Body (EMB)
Comments: The Elections Commission shall fix, vary, demarcate and continuously review
the boundaries and names of constituencies or voting units in all elections in accordance with principles specified by law and provide for publication of any amendments in the Government Gazette.
Source: Constitution 2008, art. 170 (e): http://www.majlis.gov.mv/en/wp-content/uploads/Constitution-english.pdf (2018)
Verified: 2019/02/11
Electoral Systems
ES001
Head of State
Question: How is the Head of State selected?
Answer(s):
a . Head of State is the Head of Government c . Directly elected in general elections (absolute majority with 2nd round if necessary)
Comments: The President shall be the Head of State, the Head of Government, and the Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces. The President shall be elected directly by the people by universal and secret suffrage. The President shall be elected by over fifty percent of the votes. If no candidate obtains such majority, a run-off election must be held within twenty one days after the first election. The run-off election shall be contested only by the two candidates receiving the highest number of votes in the first election.
Source: Constitution 2008, art. 106, 108, 111: http://www.majlis.gov.mv/en/wp-content/uploads/Constitution-english.pdf (2018)
Verified: 2019/02/11
ES002
Head of Government
Question: How is the Head of Government selected?
Answer:
b . Directly elected in general elections, absolute majority (with 2nd round if necessary)
Comments: The president is both the head of state and the head of government. S/he is elected directly by the people by universal and secret suffrage, by absolute majority of votes. If no candidate obtains such majority, a run-off election must be held within twenty one days after the first election. The run-off election shall be contested only by the two candidates receiving the highest number of votes in the first election
Source: Constitution 2008, art. 106, 108, 111: http://www.majlis.gov.mv/en/wp-content/uploads/Constitution-english.pdf (2018)
Verified: 2019/02/11
ES003
President
Question: Does the country have a president?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: 109. A person elected as President shall have the following qualifications:
(a)be a Maldivian citizen born to parents who are Maldivian citizens, and who is not also a citizen of a foreign country;
(b)be a Muslim and a follower of a Sunni school of Islam;
(c)be at least thirty-five years of age;
(d)be of sound mind;
(e)not have an undischarged decreed debt;
(f)not have been convicted of a criminal offence and sentenced to a term of more than twelve months, unless a period of three years has elapsed since his release, or pardon for the offence for which he was sentenced; and
(g)despite the provisions of article (f), not have been convicted of an offence for which a hadd is prescribed in Islam or of fraud, deception or criminal breach of trust.
Source: Constitution 2008, art. 106 - 128: http://www.majlis.gov.mv/en/wp-content/uploads/Constitution-english.pdf (2018)
Verified: 2019/02/11
ES004
Number of Chambers
Question: The national legislature consists of (one/two chambers):
Answer:
a . One chamber
Comments: The legislative authority of the Maldives shall be vested in the People’s Majlis.
Source: Constitution 2008, art. 70 (a): http://www.majlis.gov.mv/en/wp-content/uploads/Constitution-english.pdf (2018)
Verified: 2019/02/11
ES005
Electoral System (Chamber 1)
Question: What is the electoral system for Chamber 1 of the national legislature?
Answer(s):
a . Plurality (FPTP)
Comments: Each administrative division shall establish separate electoral constituencies and all members are elected from a separate electoral constituency. The person elected from amongst those standing for election in each separate electoral constituency shall be the person receiving the greatest number of votes by secret ballot.
Source: Constitution 2008, art. 72 (b): http://www.majlis.gov.mv/en/wp-content/uploads/Constitution-english.pdf (2018)
Verified: 2019/02/11
Legislative Framework
LF001
Status of Electoral Law
Question: What is the status of the electoral law governing national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Part of Constitution b . Separate legislation d . Regulations or administrative rules
Comments:
Source: Constitution 2008: http://www.majlis.gov.mv/en/wp-content/uploads/Constitution-english.pdf (2018);
Elections Commission Act: https://www.elections.gov.mv/en/core/downloads/Elections%20Commission%20Act.pdf;
Elections General Act (Act.No:11/2008): https://www.elections.gov.mv/en/core/downloads/Elections%20General%20Act%202008.pdf;
Parliamentary Election Act (Act.No: 2/2009): https://www.elections.gov.mv/en/core/downloads/Parliamentary%20Elections%20Act%202009.pdf;
Parliamentary Election Regulation: https://www.elections.gov.mv/en/core/downloads/Regulations%20for%20Parliamentary%20Elections%202014%20translated_FINAL_UNOFFICIAL.pdf;
Presidential Election Act: https://www.elections.gov.mv/en/core/downloads/Presidential%20Elections%20Act%20final(28th%20sep%202008).pdf;
Presidential Election Regulation: https://www.elections.gov.mv/en/core/downloads/Presidential%20Election%20Regulation%202013..pdf
Verified: 2019/02/12
LF003
Electoral Law covers
Question: The national electoral law covers:
Answer(s):
a . National elections
Comments:
Source: Constitution 2008: http://www.majlis.gov.mv/en/wp-content/uploads/Constitution-english.pdf (2018);
Elections Commission Act: https://www.elections.gov.mv/en/core/downloads/Elections%20Commission%20Act.pdf;
Elections General Act (Act.No:11/2008): https://www.elections.gov.mv/en/core/downloads/Elections%20General%20Act%202008.pdf;
Parliamentary Election Act (Act.No: 2/2009): https://www.elections.gov.mv/en/core/downloads/Parliamentary%20Elections%20Act%202009.pdf;
Parliamentary Election Regulation: https://www.elections.gov.mv/en/core/downloads/Regulations%20for%20Parliamentary%20Elections%202014%20translated_FINAL_UNOFFICIAL.pdf;
Presidential Election Act: https://www.elections.gov.mv/en/core/downloads/Presidential%20Elections%20Act%20final(28th%20sep%202008).pdf;
Presidential Election Regulation: https://www.elections.gov.mv/en/core/downloads/Presidential%20Election%20Regulation%202013..pdf
Verified: 2019/02/12
LF004
Compulsory/voluntary voting
Question: Is voting on the national level voluntary or compulsory?
Answer(s):
a . Voting is voluntary
Comments:
Source: Constitution 2008, art. 26: http://www.majlis.gov.mv/en/wp-content/uploads/Constitution-english.pdf (2018);
Article 26
Unless otherwise provided in this Constitution, every citizen of the Maldives eighteen years of age or older
has the right:
(a) to vote in elections, and in public referendums, which shall be held by secret ballot;
(b) to run for public office;
(c) to take part in the conduct of public affairs, directly or through freely chosen representatives.
Verified: 2019/02/12
LF007
Electoral Disputes Agency(ies)
Question: What are the agency(ies) responsible for the first level of formal electoral disputes?
Answer(s):
a . Judiciary
Comments: A person may challenge a decision of the Elections Commission concerning an election or a public referendum, or may challenge the results of an election, or contest the legality of any other matter related to an election, by means of an election petition presented to the High Court.
Source: Constitution 2008, art. 172: http://www.majlis.gov.mv/en/wp-content/uploads/Constitution-english.pdf (2018)
Verified: 2019/02/12
Electoral Management
EM002
Responsibility of national EMB
Question: Does the national electoral body have the responsibility for elections at:
Answer(s):
a . National level b . Regional level c . Local level
Comments: Constitution (2008)
170. The Elections Commission’s responsibilities and powers include the following:
(a) to conduct, manage, supervise, and facilitate all elections and public referendums, to ensure the proper exercise of the right to vote, and to ensure that all elections and public referendums are conducted freely and fairly, without intimidation, aggression, undue influence or corruption;
Source: Constitution 2008, art. 170 (a): http://www.majlis.gov.mv/en/wp-content/uploads/Constitution-english.pdf (2018)
Verified: 2019/02/12
EM004
EMB budget determined by
Question: The budget of the national electoral management body is determined by:
Answer(s):
c . The legislature
Comments: Elections Commission Act (2008)
27. (a) In order for the Elections Commission to discharge its duties effectively,
the state treasury shall provide the Elections Commission the funds from
the annual budget approved by the People’s Majlis every year. For this
purpose, the Elections Commission shall formulate its budget with the
advice of Ministry of Finance and Treasury, for it to be submitted to the
People’s Majlis together with the state budget.
Source: Elections Commission Act (2008), art. 27(a): https://www.elections.gov.mv/en/core/downloads/Elections%20Commission%20Act.pdf
Verified: 2019/02/12
EM005
EMB expenditures controlled by
Question: The expenditures of the national electoral management body are controlled by:
Answer(s):
a . The President c . The legislature
Comments: Elections Commission Act (2008)
27. (c) A financial statement comprising the Elections Commission’s income, expenditure, assets and liabilities, audited and prepared in consultation with the regulations formulated by the Elections Commission, shall be submitted to the President and the People’s Majlis together with the annual report specified in Article 28.
Source: Elections Commission Act (2008), art. 27(a): https://www.elections.gov.mv/en/core/downloads/Elections%20Commission%20Act.pdf
Verified: 2019/02/12
EM006
Term of EMB members
Question: The term of the members of the national electoral management body is:
Answer:
b . For a specified number of years
Comments: Elections Commission Act (2008)
6. (a) A member of the Elections Commission shall be appointed for one term of five years from the date of his appointment.
(b) Despite the provisions of article (a), the People’s Majlis can approve the renewal of the appointment for an additional term of not more than five years, except for members removed from office in accordance with Article 14.
Source: Elections Commission Act (2008), art. 27(a): https://www.elections.gov.mv/en/core/downloads/Elections%20Commission%20Act.pdf
Verified: 2019/02/12
EM012
Electoral Management model
Question: What is the Electoral Management model?
Answer:
b . Independent
Comments: Constitution (2008)
167(b). The Elections Commission is an independent and impartial institution. It shall exercise its duties and responsibilities in accordance with the Constitution and laws enacted by the People’s Majlis.
Source: Constitution 2008, art. 167: http://www.majlis.gov.mv/en/wp-content/uploads/Constitution-english.pdf (2018)
Verified: 2019/02/12
EM013
Number of EMB members
Question: The EMB is composed of:
Answer:
a . 1 - 10 members (specify)
Comments: Constitution (2008)
168 (a). The Elections Commission shall comprise of at least five members including the Chairman of the Commission.
Elections Commission Act (2008)
3. The Elections Commission shall comprise of five members.
Source: Constitution (2008), art. 168 (a): http://www.majlis.gov.mv/en/wp-content/uploads/Constitution-english.pdf (2018)
Elections Commission Act (2008). art.3: https://www.elections.gov.mv/en/core/downloads/Elections%20Commission%20Act.pdf
Verified: 2019/02/12
EM014
Membership based on
Question: The EMB members/commissioners are selected on the basis of their:
Answer:
b . Expertise
Comments: Constitution (2008)
169. To be qualified for appointment to the Elections Commission, a person shall possess the educational qualifications, experience and recognized competence necessary to discharge the functions of the Elections Commission. Members of the Elections Commission shall not engage in any other employment.
Elections Commission Act (2008)
5. A person elected as a member of the Elections Commission shall have the following qualifications:
(a) be a Muslim;
(b) be a citizen of the Maldives;
(c) be twenty five years of age;
(d) not have been convicted of an offence, during the past five years, for which a hadd is prescribed in Islam;
(e) not be a person holding an elective office or political position under the Constitution or laws of the Republic of Maldives;
(f) not hold any other office or employment, in government or private sector;
(g) not have been convicted of a criminal offence and sentenced to a term of more than twelve months, unless a period of five years has elapsed since his release, or pardon for the offence for which he was sentenced;
(h) not be a member of any political party or engage in any of its activity.
Source: Constitution (2008), art. 169 (a): http://www.majlis.gov.mv/en/wp-content/uploads/Constitution-english.pdf (2018)
Elections Commission Act (2008). art.5: https://www.elections.gov.mv/en/core/downloads/Elections%20Commission%20Act.pdf
Verified: 2019/02/12
EM015
Question: The EMB members/commissioners are selected by:
Answer(s):
a . Head of State b . Head of Government e . Legislature
Comments: (b) The President shall appoint to the Elections Commission those persons approved by a majority of the People’s Majlis from the names submitted to the People’s Majlis as provided for in the statute governing the Elections Commission.
Source: Constitution 2008, art. 168 (b): http://www.majlis.gov.mv/en/wp-content/uploads/Constitution-english.pdf (2018)
Verified: 2019/02/12
Voter Education
VE001
Information campaigns performed by
Question: Who conducts information campaigns for national elections (informing where, when and how to register and/or vote)?
Answer(s):
a . National Electoral Management Body
Comments: Constitution (2008)
170. The Elections Commission’s responsibilities and powers include the following:
(g) to educate and create awareness among the general public on the electoral process and its purpose;
Elections Commission Act (2008)
21. The Elections Commission shall have the following duties and powers:
(g)educate and create awareness among the general public on the electoral process and its purpose
Source: Constitution 2008, art. 170 (g): http://www.majlis.gov.mv/en/wp-content/uploads/Constitution-english.pdf (2018)
Elections Commission Act (2008), section 21 (g): https://www.elections.gov.mv/en/core/downloads/Elections%20Commission%20Act.pdf
Verified: 2019/02/12
VE002
Frequency of voter education programs
Question: At the national level, how often are voter education programs conducted?
Answer:
d . No information available
Comments: Information on frequency is not provided; however, the strategic plan for voter education can be referred from here: https://www.elections.gov.mv/en/core/downloads/ECSP_English_FINAL.pdf
Source: Election Commission of Maldives Strategic Plan 2016-2020
https://www.elections.gov.mv/en/core/downloads/ECSP_English_FINAL.pdf
Verified: 2019/02/13
VE003
National civic education
Question: Is there a national civic education campaign (rights and responsibilities of citizens)?
Answer(s):
b . Yes, conducted by the National Electoral Management Body h . Yes, conducted by NGOs/ Civic Organizations
Comments: Constitution (2008)
170. The Elections Commission’s responsibilities and powers include the following:
(g) to educate and create awareness among the general public on the electoral process and its purpose;
Elections Commission Act (2008)
21. The Elections Commission shall have the following duties and powers:
(g)educate and create awareness among the general public on the electoral process and its purpose
Election Commission of Maldives Strategic Plan 2016-2020
'...stakeholders are key partners in conducting voter education activities. There is a need to work closely with civil society organisations and other key stakeholders, in developing targeted programmes of voter education and ensuring consistent information.'
Source: Constitution 2008, art. 170 (g): http://www.majlis.gov.mv/en/wp-content/uploads/Constitution-english.pdf (2018)
Elections Commission Act, section 21 (g): https://www.elections.gov.mv/en/core/downloads/Elections%20Commission%20Act.pdf
Election Commission of Maldives Strategic Plan 2016-2020: https://www.elections.gov.mv/en/core/downloads/ECSP_English_FINAL.pdf
Verified: 2019/02/13
Voter Registration
VR001
Voting age
Question: What is the legal voting age in the national elections?
Answer:
c . 18
Comments: Constitution (2008):
26. Unless otherwise provided in this Constitution, every citizen of the Maldives eighteen years of age or older has the right:
(a) to vote in elections, and in public referendums, which shall be held by secret ballot
Source: Constitution (2008), art. 26 (a): http://www.majlis.gov.mv/en/wp-content/uploads/Constitution-english.pdf (2018)
Verified: 2019/02/13
VR002
Other voting requirements
Question: Beyond age, what other qualifications exist for registering to vote and voting in the national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Citizenship e . Other
Comments: Constitution 2008 (2008)
26. Unless otherwise provided in this Constitution, every citizen of the Maldives eighteen years of age or older has the right:
(a) to vote in elections, and in public referendums, which shall be held by secret ballot
Elections (General) Act (2008)
5. (a) To all elections to which this Act applies, excluding the individuals specified in subsection (b), all Maldivian citizens above 18 years have the right to vote in such elections.
(b) An individual who has been convicted of a criminal offence and sentenced to imprisonment for a period of more than 5 years and who is serving that sentence shall be exempted from the right to vote in elections.
Source: Constitution (2008), art. 26 (a): http://www.majlis.gov.mv/en/wp-content/uploads/Constitution-english.pdf (2018)
Elections (General) Act (2008), art. 5(a)(b):https://www.elections.gov.mv/en/core/download/Elections%20General%20Act%202008.pdf
Verified: 2019/02/13
VR004
Authority responsible for voter registration
Question: Which is the authority responsible for the registration of voters for national elections?
Answer:
d . Election Management Body (specify)
Comments: Constitution (2008):
170. The Elections Commission’s responsibilities and powers include the following:
(b) to prepare, maintain, and update electoral rolls,and to make all arrangements for holding elections and public referendums;
Source: Constitution (2008), art. 170 (b): http://www.majlis.gov.mv/en/wp-content/uploads/Constitution-english.pdf (2018)
Verified: 2019/02/13
VR008
Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?
Question: Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Constitution 2008: http://www.majlis.gov.mv/en/wp-content/uploads/Constitution-english.pdf (2013)
Elections (General) Act (2008):https://www.elections.gov.mv/en/core/download/Elections%20General%20Act%202008.pdf
Verified: 2019/02/13
Parties and Candidates
PC001
Registration requirements for parties (Chamber 1)
Question: What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
b . Deposit requirement (specify amount) f . Other
Comments: The requirement to constitutes political parties is the number of party members, which was in 2015 reduced from 10,000 to 3,000. However in order to receive a state financing, parties have to have 10,000 membership.
In order to run for elections, all candidates, both independent and those nominated by registered political parties, must pay a deposit of 5,000 MVR (230 EUR). The deposit is refunded to candidates who win more than 10 per cent of votes. Independent candidates were also required to submit a statement of support signed by at least 50 eligible voters from the constituency in which the candidate intended to stand. A candidate could contest elections only in one constituency.
Source: Report of the Commonwealth Expert Team on the Maldives 2009 Parliamentary Elections: http://www.thecommonwealth.org/files/210207/FileName/CommonwealthSecretariatMaldivesPeople%27sMajlis%28Parliamentary%29ElectionsReportoftheCommonwealthExpertTeam-9May2009.pdf(2013)
European Union ElectoralFollow-up Mission(EU EFM)to the Republic of Maldives, Follo-Up Mission Report (March 2018):
https://cdn2-eeas.fpfis.tech.ec.europa.eu/cdn/farfuture/lExHWGaFTKi4cwW_xK79_yEnIS-k1Jy7wxu_Ukx34fQ/mtime:1524735704/sites/eeas/files/final_mal_2017_eu_efm_report_final_formatted-new.pdf
Verified: 2019/02/15
PC003
Registration requirements for candidates (Chamber 1)
Question: What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
a . Age b . Citizenship j . Other
Comments: 8. (a) A person contesting in a Parliamentary election shall be so qualified if s/he:
(1) is a citizen of the Maldives;
(2) is not a citizen of another country;
(3) is a Muslim and a follower of a Sunni school of Islam;
(4) has attained the age of 18 (eighteen) years; and
(5) is of sound mind.
(b) A person who has acquired Maldivian citizenship is qualified to contest in the Parliamentary elections 5 (five) years after the acquisition of his citizenship, and is domiciled in the Maldives.
(c) A person shall be disqualified from contesting in the Parliamentary elections if s/he:
(1) has a decreed debt which is not being paid as provided in the judgment;
(2) has been convicted of a criminal offence and is serving a sentence of more than 12 (twelve) months;
(3) has been convicted of a criminal offence and has served a sentence of more than 12 (twelve) months, and a period of 3 (three) years have not elapsed since his release or pardon for the offence for which he was sentenced; and
(4) is a member of the Judiciary.
Source: Parliamentary Elections Act 2009, art. 8: https://www.elections.gov.mv/en/core/downloads/Parliamentary%20Elections%20Act%202009.pdf
Verified: 2019/02/15
PC008
Independent candidates
Question: Can independent candidates compete in presidential or legislative elections?
Answer(s):
e . In both presidential and legislative elections
Comments: Parliamentary Election Act (2009)
10.(c) Independent candidates in a Parliamentary election who are not standing on behalf of a political party shall (...) submit a statement signed by at least 50 (fifty) adults aged 18 and above from the electoral constituency that the person is applying to contest in, showing their support for that person.(...)
Presidential Election Act (2008)
9.(c) Persons standing for presidential elections other than as nominees of a political party should(...) submit a statement signed by at least 1500 (one thousand five hundred) adults over 18 years of age, showing support for the person standing for elections(...).
Source: Parliamentary Elections Act (2009) art. 10: https://www.elections.gov.mv/en/core/downloads/Parliamentary%20Elections%20Act%202009.pdf
Presidential Election Act (2008) art.9: https://www.elections.gov.mv/en/core/downloads/Presidential%20Elections%20Act%20final(28th%20sep%202008).pdf
Verified: 2019/02/13
PC012
Public funding of parties
Question: Do political parties receive direct/indirect public funding?
Answer(s):
b . Direct
Comments: As for the government subsidy, a total of 0.1 to 0.2 percent of the state budget for each year should be allocated to political parties.
Source: Political Parties Act (2015/24) art 8, 34, 35 (a)
Aminath Sweiza Naeem (2016) 'FUNDING OF POLITICAL PARTIES AND ELECTION CAMPAIGNS IN THE MALDIVES': https://law.unimelb.edu.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0009/1970739/WP42_Naeem.pdf, p.4
Verified: 2019/02/15
PC015
Question: What is the basis of the public funding?
Answer(s):
e . Other
Comments: As for the government subsidy, a total of 0.1 to 0.2 percent of the state budget for each year should be allocated to political parties. The Commission is mandated to distribute this amount among all the political parties registered with a membership of 10,000 ormore only at the time of distribution,and the amount has to be distributed pro rata according to the size of membership of the parties. The Commission should also consider before the distribution of the subsidy whether the parties have submitted both the annual report and the audit report, where the reports should clearly indicate that the parties have worked to achieve its objectives.15Apart from these limitations on the subsidy, there is no legal limitation approved for financing by political parties.
Source: Political Parties Act (2015/24) art 8, 34, 35 (a)
Aminath Sweiza Naeem (2016) 'FUNDING OF POLITICAL PARTIES AND ELECTION CAMPAIGNS IN THE MALDIVES': https://law.unimelb.edu.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0009/1970739/WP42_Naeem.pdf, p.4
Verified: 2019/02/15
PC017
Question: Are political parties entitled to private funding?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: Parties are permitted to procure finance through members, monies and assets from donations, government subsidies, commercialisation of party assets, money received from fund raising activities and by loan financing.
Source: Political Parties Act (2015/24) art 33(a)
Aminath Sweiza Naeem (2016) 'FUNDING OF POLITICAL PARTIES AND ELECTION CAMPAIGNS IN THE MALDIVES': https://law.unimelb.edu.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0009/1970739/WP42_Naeem.pdf, p.3
Verified: 2019/02/15
Vote Counting
VC004
Votes are sorted/counted at
Question: Following the close of the voting, where are the votes first sorted and counted?
Answer:
a . The polling stations
Comments: Constitution (2008)
171(b)Immediately after the close of the polls, the presiding officer who is appointed by the Elections Commission shall, in the presence of such candidates or their representatives if present, and any other persons authorized by law to be present, count at that polling station the ballot papers of that station, and record and publicly declare the votes cast in favour of each candidate or question in a public referendum.
Source: Constitution (2008), art. 171 (b):http://www.majlis.gov.mv/en/wp-content/uploads/Constitution-english.pdf (2018)
Verified: 2019/02/13
VC011
When are ballots recounted?
Question: Under what conditions are ballots recounted?
Answer(s):
d . By request e . Court order f . Other
Comments: Regulations for Parliamentary Elections (2014)
43. (a) The Elections Commission is permitted to open the sealed security envelopes containing ballot papers cast by voters and re-count the votes under certain special circumstances.
1- If the Elections Commission finds any discrepancy or any other problem in the temporary results reported by a given voting station.
2- If a complaint regarding the results of a voting station is submitted along with substantial evidence and if the
Elections Commission deems the complaint necessary for investigation, the security envelope can be opened for investigative purposes.
3- If a court order is issued to the Elections Commission to open the Security Envelopes.
4- In any other case where the Elections Commission finds the result questionable and finds it necessary to open the
security envelopes.
Presidential Elections Regulation (2013)
47. (a) The Elections Commission may open an recount the ballot papers of voters sealed in special security bags under the following circumstances.
1- Where the Commission identifies any problems in the preparation of the preliminary results sent from the polling station.
2- For the purpose of investigating, where the Election Commission is of the opinion that the complaint submitted by any person in relation to the result of the polling station has enough evidence to necessitate an investigation.
3- A court order issued against the Elections Commission to open the sealed special security bags containing the ballot papers.
4- The occurrence of any other circumstance than those prescribed herein, in which the Elections
Commission is of the opinion that the validity of the votes is likely to be questioned.
Source: Regulations for Parliamentary Elections (2014), act.43 (a): https://www.elections.gov.mv/en/core/downloads/Regulations%20for%20Parliamentary%20Elections%202014%20translated_FINAL_UNOFFICIAL.pdf
Presidential Elections Regulation (2013), act. 47 (a): https://www.elections.gov.mv/en/core/downloads/Presidential%20Election%20Regulation%202013..pdf
Verified: 2019/02/13
Media and Elections
ME037
Criteria for allocating free broadcast time
Question: What are the criteria for allocating free broadcast time and/or free printed advertisement space to political parties?
Answer(s):
g . Other (specify)
Comments: Free airtime only for presidential election. For legislative election, there are no free airtime.
Presidential Elections Act (2008)
13. In addition to the campaigning carried out by candidates and political parties through broadcasting mediums in accordance with section 30 of Elections (General) Act (ActNo: 11/2008), state broadcasting authorities shall give free airtime, in accordance with the manner determined and publicized by them, without discriminating, to all candidates contesting in the presidential elections.
Source: Commonwealth Expert Team on the Maldives 2009 Parliamentary Elections, p. 22: http://www.thecommonwealth.org/files/210207/FileName/CommonwealthSecretariatMaldivesPeople%27sMajlis%28Parliamentary%29ElectionsReportoftheCommonwealthExpertTeam-9May2009.pdf (2013)
Presidential Elections Act (2008): https://www.elections.gov.mv/en/core/downloads/Presidential%20Elections%20Act%20final(28th%20sep%202008).pdf
Verified: 2019/02/13
ME059
Television debates
Question: Are televised debates between candidates or party representatives normally conducted?
Answer(s):
a . Yes, in presidential elections b . Yes, in legislative elections
Comments:
Source: Commonwealth Expert Team on the Maldives 2009 Parliamentary Elections, p. 3, 22: http://www.thecommonwealth.org/files/210207/FileName/CommonwealthSecretariatMaldivesPeople%27sMajlis%28Parliamentary%29ElectionsReportoftheCommonwealthExpertTeam-9May2009.pdf (2013)
European Union Electoral Observation Mission for Parliamentary Elections 22 March 2014 Final Report (2014): http://eeas.europa.eu/archives/eueom/missions/2014/maldives/pdf/eu-eom-maldives2014-final-report_en.pdf
Verified: 2019/02/13
ME062
Blackout period for release of opinion poll results.
Question: What is the blackout period, if any, during which results of pre-election opinion polls may not be released to the public?
Answer:
g . No information available
Comments: Exit polls are not allowed (as of 2008) but no mentions on pre-election opinion polls.
Source: Transparency Maldives, An Assessment of the Maldivian Electoral System (2008): http://www.transparencymaldives.org/uploads/page/file/electoral_assessment.pdf (2013)
Verified: 2019/02/13
ME080
Question: Is there a maximum amount that a political party is permitted to spend on paid advertising during a campaign period?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: Elections (General) Act (2008)
30. (c): From the time allotted to candidates pursuant to subsection (a) no broadcasters shall under any circumstance give or sell more than 10% of the time allotted to one candidate, to one individual candidate or a political party or a candidate representing a political party
69. In relation to an election, a candidate should only spend an amount not more than the equivalent of a total amount of money calculated on the basis of 1500 (one thousand five hundred) rufiyaa per each eligible elector from the electoral constituency for which he is standing for elections.
Source: Elections (General) Act (2008): https://www.elections.gov.mv/en/core/downloads/Elections%20General%20Act%202008.pdf
Verified: 2019/02/13
Direct Democracy
DD002
Direct Democracy Provisions (National Level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Direct Democracy Procedures at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: Constitution has articles on referendum. Please refer below sources.
Source: Constitution 2008, art. 70 (b-6), 115 (p), 262, 264, 265: http://www.majlis.gov.mv/en/wp-content/uploads/Constitution-english.pdf (2018)
Verified: 2019/02/13
DD003
Mandatory referendums (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Mandatory Referendums at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: Constitution (2008)
62.(a)The Bill amending the Constitution passed by the People’s Majlis shall come into force upon obtaining the written assent of the President.
(b)Despite the provisions of article (a) above, the President shall give written assent to any amendments made by the People’s Majlis to the following provisions of this Constitution only after a public referendum decides so by a majority of the votes cast. 1.Any of the provisions contained in Chapter II (The Maldivian Charter of Rights and Freedoms) of this Constitution; 2.Article 79(a) (Term of Majlis); 3.Article 107 (Term of office), and Article 108 (Presidential election); where the amendment does not receive a majority approval in the public referendum, it shall be deemed to have been defeated.
Source: Constitution (2008), art. 262: http://www.majlis.gov.mv/en/wp-content/uploads/Constitution-english.pdf (2018)
Verified: 2019/02/13
DD004
Optional referendums (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Optional Referendums at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: If the President does not assent to the Bill amending the Constitution passed by the People’s Majlis and so informs the People’s Majlis, the People’s Majlis may within a period determined by the People’s Majlis call for a public referendum to vote on the adoption or rejection of the Bill.
In addition, the President can hold public referendums on issues of national importance.
Source: Constitution (2008), art. 70 (b-6), 115 (p), 264: http://www.majlis.gov.mv/en/wp-content/uploads/Constitution-english.pdf (2018)
Verified: 2019/02/13
DD005
Citizens' Initiatives (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Citizen’s Initiatives at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Constitution 2008: http://www.majlis.gov.mv/en/wp-content/uploads/Constitution-english.pdf (2018)
Verified: 2019/02/15
DD006
Agenda Initiatives (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Agenda Initiatives at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Constitution 2008: http://www.majlis.gov.mv/en/wp-content/uploads/Constitution-english.pdf (2018)
Verified: 2019/02/15
DD007
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Recalls at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Constitution 2008: http://www.majlis.gov.mv/en/wp-content/uploads/Constitution-english.pdf (2018)
Verified: 2019/02/15
DD129
Question: Are the results of referenda always binding, never binding or sometimes binding?
Answer:
a . Always binding
Comments: Constitution (2008)
264 (c). If the Bill is approved by a majority in the public referendum specified in article (b), the President shall assent to the Bill within fifteen days and publish it in the Government Gazette.
265.Where the Bill amending this Constitution passed by the People’s Majlis does not receive a majority approval in the public referendum, it shall be deemed to have been defeated.
Source: Constitution 2008, art. 265: http://www.majlis.gov.mv/en/wp-content/uploads/Constitution-english.pdf (2018)
Verified: 2019/02/15
DD130
Question: Are the types of issues to vote upon in a referendum constitutional changes only, other issues only or both constitutional and other issues?
Answer:
c . Both constitutional and other issues
Comments:
Source: Constitution 2008, art. 70 (b-6), 115 (p), 262, 264: http://www.majlis.gov.mv/en/wp-content/uploads/Constitution-english.pdf (2018)
Verified: 2019/02/15
DD131
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Direct Democracy at sub-national levels (regional or local)?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: Neither constitution, regulations for local councils' election nor lkocal council election regulation 2013 have provisions for direct democracy at sub-national levels.
Source: Constitution 2008: http://www.majlis.gov.mv/en/wp-content/uploads/Constitution-english.pdf (2013)
Verified: 2019/02/15
Voting Operations
VO003
Electors vote at
Question: Where can electors vote?
Answer(s):
k . No information available
Comments: Normally, registered voters can vote based on their permanent residency.
Details are stipulated in General Law on Elections (Law No.11/2018), which is not available in English.
Source: General Law on Elections (Inthihaaba Behey Aanmu Gaanoonu)Law No. 11/2008
Verified: 2019/02/15
VO004
Voting outside the country is permitted for
Question: Who can vote from outside the country?
Answer(s):
b . Citizens residing outside the country
Comments: This is verified only for 2009 elections.
Source: Report of the Commonwealth Expert Team on the Maldives 2009 Parliamentary Elections, p. 16: https://www.elections.gov.mv/en/core/downloads/Elections%20General%20Act%202008.pdf (2013)
Verified: 2019/02/15
VO011
Voting method
Question: How do electors cast their votes?
Answer(s):
a . Manually marking of ballots
Comments: For Presidential elections, the voter places a mark on the ballot paper for the candidate.
Source: Regulations on Presidential Elections (2013), article 28: https://www.elections.gov.mv/en/core/downloads/Presidential%20Election%20Regulation%202013..pdf
Verified: 2019/02/15
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