Former Attorney General Uza Aishath Azima Shakoor has said there is no legal issue in holding presidential and parliamentary elections concurrently in the Maldives, adding that such a move would not undermine the electoral process.

Speaking on the matter, Uza Azima said the current legal framework does not prohibit simultaneous elections, noting that no legal challenge has been raised against the concept and that existing provisions remain clear on the issue.

She also highlighted the need for constitutional amendments to address structural issues, stating that reforms are necessary to ensure long-term political and economic stability, and described holding elections on the same day as a step that could contribute to a more stable governance framework.

Uza Azima noted that the Maldives currently undergoes multiple election cycles within a short period, with three elections held over five years, describing this as a challenge that could be addressed by streamlining the process without limiting democratic participation.

She added that conducting both elections together would not reduce the public’s ability to choose their President and Members of Parliament, emphasising that democratic decision-making would remain intact, while calling for a strong and consistent system to ensure policies are implemented effectively.