Former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom has called on the public to participate in Saturday’s elections, stating that the vote should be viewed not as a choice, but as a civic responsibility.
Speaking to the media after casting his ballot, Yameen said the ongoing polls — which include Local Council by-elections, Women’s Development Committee elections, and a national referendum — carry significant importance for the country’s democratic process and future governance structure.
He emphasised that ensuring strong public participation is a key responsibility of the Elections Commission of Maldives, but criticised the commission’s preparations, alleging shortcomings in the organisation of the electoral process.
Among the concerns raised, Yameen pointed to the lack of adequate arrangements for Maldivians living abroad to participate in voting, as well as insufficient efforts to encourage voter turnout within the country. He also questioned certain procedural decisions, including the handling of ballot papers that voters may choose not to use.
Addressing voter engagement, he remarked that the Elections Commission should not depend solely on public interest, stressing that it has a duty to actively facilitate participation in matters of national importance.
Polling began at 8:00 a.m. and is scheduled to continue until 4:00 p.m., with a total of 294,937 eligible voters. Yameen’s remarks come amid concerns that turnout may be lower than expected, as the elections play a key role in shaping local governance, women’s representation, and future electoral frameworks in the Maldives.
