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Maldives Maldives

Disclaimer: This section of Comparative Data is not being updated. Users should be aware that data may be inaccurate. If you find inaccuracies please contact the ACE facilitators.

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
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BD002


Question:The authority responsible for final approval of the constituency boundaries is:
Answer(s): e. Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Permanent Mission of the Republic of Maldives to the United Nations: http://www.un.int/maldives/
Verified: 2004/08/24
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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
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BD004


Question:If population is a criterion, which population figure is used?
Answer: g. Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Permanent Mission of the Republic of Maldives to the United Nations: http://www.un.int/maldives/
Verified: 2004/08/24
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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
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BD006


Question:What statistical or other reasons trigger the redrawing of electoral constituency boundaries?
Answer(s): m. Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Permanent Mission of the Republic of Maldives to the United Nations: http://www.un.int/maldives/
Verified: 2004/08/24
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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ES006


Question:What is the electoral system for Chamber 2 of the national legislature?
Answer(s): k. The national legislature consists of one chamber only
Comments:
Source: Constitution 1998, article 63.
Verified: 2004/08/24
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ES007


Question:If List PR is used, is a highest average formula used?
Answer: h. Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2004/08/24
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ES008


Question:What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 1?
Answer(s): c. Regional/provincial level
Comments: Two members are elected from each of the 20 atolls and Male to the People's Majlis.
Source: Law on General Elections (No:5/81H), article 22(a).
Verified: 2004/10/07
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ES009


Question:What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 2?
Answer(s): d. Not applicable
Comments: The national legislature consists of one chamber only.
Source: Constitution 1998, article 63.
Verified: 2004/08/24
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ES010


Question:Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 1 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
Answer: b. No
Comments:
Source: Constitution 1998.
Verified: 2004/08/24
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ES011
If special constituencies or seats are reserved in Chamber 1, specify which interest groups, and the proportion of total seats reserved for:
Nationality or ethnic groups - proportion of total seats (%) 	
Women	- proportion of total seats (%) 	
Religious groups - proportion of total seats (%) 	
Other- proportion of total seats (%) 	
Not applicable 	X
Source
Constitution 1998. Regulations on General Elections.
Verified
2009/12/08
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ES012


Question:Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 2 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
Answer: c. The national legislature consists of one chamber only
Comments:
Source: Constitution 1998, article 63.
Verified: 2004/08/24
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ES013
If special constituencies or seats are reserved in Chamber 2, specify which interest groups, and the proportion of total seats reserved:
Nationality or ethnic groups - proportion of total seats (%) 	
Women	- proportion of total seats (%) 	
Religious groups - proportion of total seats (%) 	
Other - proportion of total seats (%) 	
Not applicable 	X
Source
No Source
Verified
2009/12/08
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ES014


Question:What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 1?
Answer: c. Not applicable
Comments: Although parties are not legally banned, they do not exist on the Maldives.
Source: Dieter Nohlen, Florian Grotz and Christof Hartmann (eds.) Elections in Asia and the Pacific: A Data Handbook Vol. I Middle East, Central Asia, and South Asia Oxford University Press, New York, 2001, pg 588.
Verified: 2004/08/24
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ES015


Question:What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 2?
Answer: c. Not applicable
Comments: The national legislature consists of one chamber only.
Source: Constitution 1998, article 63.
Verified: 2004/08/24
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ES016


Question:What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 1?
Answer: a. No minimum
Comments: The two candidates with the highest shares of votes from each atoll are sent to the Majlis.
Source: Law on General Elections (No:5/81H), article 22(a).
Verified: 2004/10/07
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ES017


Question:What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 2?
Answer: c. Not applicable
Comments: The national legisalture consists of one chamber only.
Source: Constitution 1998, article 63.
Verified: 2004/08/24
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ES018


Question:Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 1, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
Answer(s): a. At fixed intervals (specify length)
Comments: Elections are held every 5 years and they have to be called within 30 days of the expiration of the existing Majlis.
Source: Constitution 1988, articles 65 and 88.
Verified: 2004/08/24
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ES019


Question:Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 2, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
Answer(s): e. Not applicable
Comments: The national legislature consists of one chamber only.
Source: Constitution 1988, article 63.
Verified: 2004/08/24
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ES020


Question:Regarding Chamber 1 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
Answer: a. Voting takes place on one day
Comments:
Source: Law on General Elections, article 12.
Verified: 2004/08/24
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ES021


Question:Regarding Chamber 2 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
Answer: c. Not applicable
Comments: The national legislature consists of one chamber only.
Source: Constitution 1988, article 63.
Verified: 2019/02/11
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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
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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
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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
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LF005


Question:Are there provisions in the law which permit or require regional and/ or local election (s) to be held on the same day as national elections?
Answer: a. National elections are not held on the same day as regional or local elections
Comments: Regional elections are not held on the Maldives.
Source:
Verified: 2004/08/24
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LF006


Question:Are there provisions in the law which permit or require presidential election (s) to be held on the same day as national legislative elections?
Answer(s): a. Presidential elections are not held on the same day as national legislative elections
Comments: In 1972, the presidential term was changed from 4 to 5 years to avoid a possible coincidence with parliamentary elections.
Source: Dieter Nohlen, Florian Grotz and Christof Hartmann (eds.) Elections in Asia and the Pacific: A Data Handbook Vol. I Middle East, Central Asia, and South Asia Oxford University Press, New York, 2001, pg 588.
Verified: 2004/08/24
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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
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LF008


Question:If the agency(ies) which settles formal disputes is/are specially appointed/elected; by whom?
Answer(s): h. Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Constitution 1998, article 135.
Verified: 2004/09/02
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LF009


Question:Who has the right to submit cases to the person or agency(ies)which settles formal disputes?
Answer(s): e. Other
Comments: The article prescribes that "any person" who has knowledge of the commission of a prohibited act or suspicion of one can make a petition.
Source: Law on General Elections, article 29.
Verified: 2004/08/24
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Electoral Management

EM001
Please provide the following contact information for the national electoral management body:
Name of Institution: Elections Commission
Website Address: http://www.elections.gov.mv
Source
No Source
Verified
2013/02/15
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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
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EM003


Question:The national electoral management body reports to:
Answer(s): a. The President
Comments:
Source: Constitution 1998, article 130.
Verified: 2004/08/24
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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
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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
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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
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EM007


Question:The national electoral management body chairperson, or equivalent, is chosen in the following way:
Answer(s): d. Presidential/ Prime Minister appointment
Comments:
Source: Constitution 1998, article 132.
Verified: 2004/08/24
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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VR003


Question:What restrictions on registering to vote and voting exist in the country?
Answer(s): a. Criminal Incarceration
c. Detention
d. Mental disability
Comments:
Source: Constitution 1998, article 134.
Verified: 2004/08/24
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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
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VR005


Question:What is the registration method for national elections?
Answer: a. National citizens register
Comments: The Commissioner of Elections prepares the voters register for Presidential elections and elections to the People's Majlis.
Source: Law on Presidential Elections (No.1/98), article 4 (b). Law on General Elections (No.5/81H), article 5 (b).
Verified: 2004/10/07
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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
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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
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PC002

Registration requirements for parties (Chamber 2)


Question:What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s): g. No information available
Comments: The national legislature consists of one chamber only.
Source: Dieter Nohlen, Florian Grotz and Christof Hartmann (eds.) Elections in Asia and the Pacific: A Data Handbook Vol. I Middle East, Central Asia, and South Asia Oxford University Press, New York, 2001, pg 588.
Verified: 2004/08/25
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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
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PC004

Registration requirements for candidates (Chamber 2)


Question:What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s): k. No information available
Comments: The national legislature consists of one chamber only.
Source: Constitution 1998, article 63.
Verified: 2004/08/25
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PC005


Question:What are the legal qualifications for becoming a candidate at presidential elections?
Answer(s): a. Age
b. Citizenship
e. Citizenship of parents
j. Other
Comments: a.) 35 years. e.) Parents and Grandparents need to be Maldivian citizens. j.) Need to be a male and of Muslim- Sunni-religion. Capable of discharging the duties and responsibilities of the office of the President.
Source: Constitution 1998, article 34.
Verified: 2007/11/05
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PC006


Question:What can disqualify a candidate at legislative elections?
Answer(s): c. Criminal record
k. Mental health problems
l. Multiple Citizenship
Comments:
Source: Constitution 1998, article 66.
Verified: 2004/08/25
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PC007


Question:What can disqualify a candidate at presidential elections?
Answer(s): c. Criminal record
k. Mental health problems
l. Multiple Citizenship
p. Other
Comments: p.) The candidate should not be married to a national of a foreign country.
Source: Constitution 1998, article 34.
Verified: 2004/08/25
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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
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PC009


Question:If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 1), what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s): a. Signature requirement (specify)
b. Deposit requirement (specify)
Comments: a.) A signed written application has to be submitted which includes: (1) full name and address (2) sex (3) date of birth (4) last address of residence (5) occupation (specifying the designation) (6) constituency. b.) A deposit of a sum of Rf. 2000/-has to be submitted with the application.
Source: Regulations on General Elections, article 3(a). Law on General Elections, article 7(a).
Verified: 2007/11/05
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PC010


Question:If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 2), what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s): e. Not applicable
Comments: The national legislature consists of one chamber only.
Source: Constitution 1998, article 63.
Verified: 2004/08/25
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PC011


Question:If independent candidates can compete in presidential elections, what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s): a. Signature requirement (specify)
d. Other
Comments: The candidate has to submit the following: (a) The form contained in schedule 1 to the Regulations on Presidential Elections. (b) Maldivian Identity Card indicating the name, permanent address and date of birth of the person, the official document mentioned herein shall be the; where the Identity Card is not available the Birth Certificate; or other official documents mentioned in the Article 12. (c) A declaration to the effect that the applicant is a Muslim of Sunni following, is a citizen of the Maldives whose parents and grandparents are Maldivian citizens, is a male person who has attained 35 years of age, is of sound mind, is capable of discharging the duties and responsibilities of the office of President, has not been convicted of an offence for which is prescribed in Islam, has not been convicted of criminal breach of trust and thereby brought into disrepute, is not a citizen of a foreign country and is not married to a citizen of a foreign country, (schedule2) (d) Information relating to the employment of the person applying to become a candidate for the office of President. (schedule 3) (e) Information relating to the business, if any, carried on or participated in by the person applying to become a candidate for the office of President. (schedule 4)
Source: Regulations on General Elections, article 12.
Verified: 2007/11/05
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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
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PC013


Question:If political parties receive direct/indirect public funding, when do they receive this?
Answer(s): d. Not Applicable
Comments: No provisions for public funding of independent or party candidates.
Source: Dieter Nohlen, Florian Grotz and Christof Hartmann (eds.) Elections in Asia and the Pacific: A Data Handbook Vol. I Middle East, Central Asia, and South Asia Oxford University Press, New York, 2001, pg 588.
Verified: 2007/11/05
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PC014


Question:If political parties receive indirect public funding, identify the type of funding:
Answer(s): e. Not Applicable
Comments: No provisions for public funding of independent or party candidates.
Source: Dieter Nohlen, Florian Grotz and Christof Hartmann (eds.) Elections in Asia and the Pacific: A Data Handbook Vol. I Middle East, Central Asia, and South Asia Oxford University Press, New York, 2001, pg 588.
Verified: 2007/11/05
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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
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PC016


Question:If political parties receive public funding, what is the specified purpose?
Answer(s): e. Not Applicable
Comments: No provisions for public funding of independent or party candidates.
Source: Dieter Nohlen, Florian Grotz and Christof Hartmann (eds.) Elections in Asia and the Pacific: A Data Handbook Vol. I Middle East, Central Asia, and South Asia Oxford University Press, New York, 2001, pg 588.
Verified: 2007/11/05
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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
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PC018


Question:If political parties are entitled to private funding, for what period?
Answer(s): d. Not Applicable
Comments:
Source: Dieter Nohlen, Florian Grotz and Christof Hartmann (eds.) Elections in Asia and the Pacific: A Data Handbook Vol. I Middle East, Central Asia, and South Asia Oxford University Press, New York, 2001, pg 588.
Verified: 2004/09/02
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PC020


Question:Which of the following candidate financing provisions are applicable?
Answer(s): d. Ceilings on how much money a candidate can raise
Comments: The following candidate provisions are applicable: (a) ceiling on the amount that a candidate can incur as election expenditure for Presidential Elections (b) For elections to the People’s Majlis, expenses incurred in canvassing for votes in a candidate's constituency shall not exceed the sum calculated at the rate of Rf. 100/- for every person of the constituency having the right to vote, plus 10% of the said sum for every inhabited island of the constituency, where a constituency has more than one inhabited island.
Source: Regulations on Presidential Elections, article 4(b). Law on General Elections, article 11 (a) and (b).
Verified: 2007/11/05
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PC021


Question:Who is responsible for administering and enforcing party income/funding regulations at national level?
Answer(s): a. National Electoral Management body
Comments: Financial expenses of individual candidates are administered and enforced by the Commissioner of Elections.
Source: Regulations on General Elections, article 4(b).
Verified: 2007/11/05
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Vote Counting

VC001


Question:What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s): d. Categorical (only one mark allowed)
g. Different ballots used in different constituencies
l. No photos or logos, only party and/or candidate names
Comments:
Source: Regulations on General Elections, article 8(d).
Verified: 2009/11/04
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VC002


Question:What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s): s. Not applicable
Comments: The national legislature consists of one chamber only.
Source: Constitution 1998, article 63.
Verified: 2009/11/04
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VC003


Question:What are the characteristics of ballots used at presidential elections?
Answer(s): d. Categorical (only possible to make one mark)
f. Same ballot papers used nation-wide
l. No photos or logos, only party and/or candidate names
Comments:
Source: Regulations on Presidential Elections, article 23(d).
Verified: 2009/11/04
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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
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VC006


Question:Following the sorting and counting, to where are the results first transmitted for consolidation?
Answer(s): e. National level
Comments: The results are announced by the Commissioner of Elections.
Source: Regulations on Presidential Elections, articles 37 and 38. Regulations on General Elections, article 20.
Verified: 2009/11/04
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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
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VC015


Question:Are preliminary results announced?
Answer: b. No
Comments: The final results are announced by the Commissioner of Elections.
Source: Regulations on Presidential Elections, articles 37 and 38. Regulations on General Elections, article 20.
Verified: 2009/11/04
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VC016
If preliminary results are announced, how long after the close of polls is this done?
hours: 	
days: 	
weeks: 	
Not applicable 	X
Source
Regulations on Presidential Elections, articles 37 and 38. Regulations on General Elections, article 20.
Verified
2013/02/15
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VC017


Question:Is there a legal requirement for the declaration of the officially certified results?
Answer: a. Yes
Comments: The results are announced by the Commissioner of Elections.
Source: Regulations on Presidential Elections, articles 37 and 38. Regulations on General Elections, article 20.
Verified: 2009/11/04
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Media and Elections

ME001
Please provide information about the person completing the questionnaire.
Name and Title: 	
Job Title: 	
Organisation: 	
Contact Address: 	
Telephone:  	
Facsimile: 	
Email: 	
Source
No Source
Verified
2013/02/15
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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
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ME038
What, if any, is the maximum amount that a political party is permitted to spend on paid advertising during a campaign period?
Amount (Euros) 	
The law does not specify any limits on paid advertising 	
Source
No Source
Verified
2013/02/15
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ME056
What are the laws, if any, which govern the disclosure of campaign advertising expenditures by political parties and candidates?
....... 	
There are no laws in this regard 	
Source
No Source
Verified
2013/02/15
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ME057
What, if any, is the maximum amount that a media outlet can charge parties/candidates for advertising during the campaign?
......... 	
The law does not specify any limits 	
Source
No Source
Verified
2013/02/15
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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DD013
When were direct democracy mechanisms first introduced into the legal framework at the national level? Date (yyyy)
Mandatory referendum 	
Optional referendum 	
Citizens' initiative 	
Agenda initiative 	
Recall 	
Not applicable 	
Source
No Source
Verified
2009/10/23
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DD014
When was an administrative framework for direct democracy mechanisms first introduced at the national level? Date (yyyy)
Mandatory referendum 	
Optional referendum 	
Citizens' initiative 	
Agenda initiative 	
Recall 	
Not applicable 	
Source
No Source
Verified
2009/10/23
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DD027


Question:What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are mandatory at the national level?
Answer(s): l. Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/30
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DD028


Question:What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are optional at the national level?
Answer(s): a. Constitutional amendments
b. Adoption of international treaties
c. Transfer of authority to international bodies
d. National sovereignty, national self-determination
e. Conflict between constitutional organs
f. Devolution
g. Civil service
h. Taxes and public expenditure commitments
i. Other public policy issues
j. Other (specify)
Comments: j) All major issues. C:42 "(f) Holding public referendums on major issues concerning which the President requires to obtain public opinion."
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of the Maldives, art. 42
Verified: 2006/12/30
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DD038
What, if any, are the quorum requirements for a mandatory referendum to be valid? Please specify numbers/percentages.
Turnout quorum 	
Approval quorum 	
No quorum required 	
Not applicable 	
Source
No Source
Verified
2009/10/23
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DD039
What, if any, are the quorum requirements for a optional referendum to be valid? Please specify numbers/percentages.
Turnout quorum 	
Approval quorum 	
No quorom required 	
Not applicable 	
Source
No Source
Verified
2009/10/23
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DD043


Question:When is the outcome of a mandatory referendum binding?
Answer: d. Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/30
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DD044


Question:When is the outcome of an optional referendum binding?
Answer: c. Never
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/12/30
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DD072
How many verified signatures are required to start the formal decision-making stage for an abrogative referendum (optional)? Indicate figures in the appropriate boxes. If more than one answer exists for any individual box, explain in the comment section.
Fixed number 	
Proportion of the electorate 	
Proportion of the vote at the most recent election 	
Other (specify) 	
Not applicable 	
Source
No Source
Verified
2009/10/23
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DD073
How many verified signatures are required to start the formal decision-making stage for a rejective referendum (optional)? Indicate figures in the appropriate boxes. If more than one answer exists for any individual box, explain in the comment section.
Fixed number 	
Proportion of the electorate 	
Proportion of the vote at the most recent election 	
Other (specify) 	
Not applicable 	
Source
No Source
Verified
2009/10/23
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DD074
How many verified signatures are required to start the formal decision-making stage for a citizens' initiative? Indicate figures in the appropriate boxes. If more than one answer exists for any individual box, explain in the comment section.
Fixed number 	
Proportion of the electorate 	
Proportion of the vote at the most recent election 	
Other (specify) 	
Not applicable 	
Source
No Source
Verified
2009/10/23
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DD075
How many verified signatures are required to start the formal decision-making stage for an agenda initiative? Indicate figures in the appropriate boxes. If more than one answer exists for any individual box, explain in the comment section.
Fixed number 	
Proportion of the electorate 	
Proportion of the vote at the most recent election 	
Other (specify) 	
Not applicable 	
Source
No Source
Verified
2009/10/23
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DD084
How many verified signatures are required to start the formal decision-making stage for a recall? Indicate figures in the appropriate boxes. If more than one answer exists for any individual box, explain in the comment section.
Fixed number 	
Proportion of the electorate 	
Proportion of the vote at the most recent election 	
Other (specify) 	
Not applicable 	
Source
No Source
Verified
2009/10/23
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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VO005

Locations for voting outside of the country


Question:If voting outside the country is permitted, at what places?
Answer(s): g. No information available
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2019/02/15
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VO006


Question:Can people vote in advance of the designated national election day(s)?
Answer: a. No
Comments:
Source: Law on General Elections, article 12.
Verified: 2004/08/25
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VO007


Question:If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), how may they do so?
Answer(s): f. Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Law on General Elections, article 12.
Verified: 2004/08/25
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VO008


Question:If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), specify who:
Answer(s): g. Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Law on General Elections, article 12.
Verified: 2004/08/25
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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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VO012
How many staff are assigned to each polling station?
The smallest polling station: 	7
The largest polling station: 	7
Average per polling station: 	
Source
Regulations on Presidential Elections, articles 20(a) and 21.
Verified
2019/02/15
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