Holding a public referendum separately from the upcoming Local Council Elections would cost significantly more, with expenses estimated at between MVR 60 million and MVR 80 million, the Elections Commission (EC) has said.

The remarks were made by Elections Commission President Mohamed Zahid while appearing before the Independent Institutions Committee of the People’s Majlis, which is reviewing a bill to amend the Constitution to merge the presidential and parliamentary elections.

Speaking to the committee, Zahid said the Commission is fully prepared to implement any changes arising from amendments passed by Parliament.

Zahid said that if a public referendum is held alongside the upcoming Local Council Elections, an additional MVR 20 million would be required. He explained that conducting the referendum together with the council polls would involve printing additional ballot papers, recruiting more election officials and paying extra allowances. Based on previous experience, he said charter flights may also be required to transport ballot boxes and ballot papers.

He noted that under the law, the EC must be given at least 45 days to conduct a public referendum. As such, Zahid said the referendum could only be held together with the Local Council Elections if all legal procedures are completed by 18 February 2026.

Zahid also stressed the importance of public awareness, noting that a referendum on a matter that could bring about significant political change should allow sufficient time for public information and outreach.

If the constitutional amendment is passed by Parliament and ratified by the President, parliamentary elections would be held together with the 2028 presidential election, resulting in a shortening of the current parliamentary term.