The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) chairperson election held today has come under scrutiny following a series of incidents involving ballot boxes and alleged voting irregularities, raising further questions about the integrity of the electoral process.

During voting, a ballot box placed in Gaafu Dhaalu Fiyoaree was reportedly broken open, leading to unrest at the polling station. A similar incident was also reported in Faafu Feeali, where a ballot box was allegedly tampered with by supporters of former President Mohamed Nasheed.

In addition, chairperson candidate Mikaeel Naseem alleged that voting in Feeali was being conducted using a voter list prepared by the official responsible for the ballot box. Mikaeel added that the list excluded names of his supporters while including those believed to support Nasheed.

He further claimed that the official later took the ballot box to his residence and handled voting-related matters there.

Despite reports of ballot boxes being opened in several islands, voting reportedly continued in some locations using the same boxes.

The MDP Elections Committee has stated that votes cast into opened or tampered ballot boxes cannot be verified and therefore will not be counted as valid votes. The incidents have sparked additional disputes during the election process.

Another issue emerged involving former MP Gasim, with reports alleging that ballot papers had been taken away from a polling station. The matter reportedly led to a temporary suspension of voting.

Today's election has therefore been marked by several incidents that have raised concerns over transparency and the credibility of the process. Allegations of irregularities have frequently surfaced during MDP internal elections in the past, with critics arguing that such issues continue to undermine confidence in the party's electoral procedures.