The President of the Elections Commission of Maldives (ECM), Mohamed Zahid, has stated that 72 percent of eligible voters cast their votes in the runoff round of voting for the Local Council elections and the Women’s Development Committee (WDC) elections.
In a interview given to PSM News, ECM President Zahid said that no complaints had been received by the Commission up until the closing of the ballot boxes. He also noted that, according to records, 72 percent of those eligible to vote had participated.
“We have not received any complaints up to the closing of the ballot boxes. Based on the records we are seeing so far, 72 percent of eligible voters have cast their votes,” Zahid said.
Zahid further explained that, in general, the turnout for second rounds is not usually very high. However, he noted that this time the turnout was significantly higher, reflecting strong public interest in participating and making their voices heard through voting.
“Usually, turnout in second rounds for local councils is not this high. But this time, it clearly shows the level of public interest in using the vote to express their voice,” he said.
The runoff round of voting was held in five constituencies. These include the election for the women’s reserved seat on the Dhonfanu Council in Baa Atoll, as well as the election of a councillor for the Dhadimagu constituency in Fuvahmulah City, which is also designated for a female candidate.
In the WDC elections, the second round will determine the President of the Kelaa Women’s Development Committee in Haa Alif Atoll, alongside committee members for Neykurendhoo in Haa Dhaalu Atoll and Maavah in Laamu Atoll.
Voting for the additional round concluded at 4:00 PM, after which all ballot boxes were closed.