The Elections Commission (EC) has published updated population figures for all islands and cities, a requirement under the Decentralisation Act ahead of the upcoming Local Council and Women’s Development Committee elections. The statistics, as of 30 August, record 83,813 people in Malé City, 35,549 in Addu City, 11,110 in Kulhudhuffushi, and 10,453 in Thinadhoo, with Naifaru, Gan, Hinnavaru, and Dhuvaafaru being the most populous islands. The elections will proceed under current law, though the Government has proposed amendments to dissolve atoll councils and reduce councillors in smaller islands. In addition, a referendum is scheduled for 25 November on forming separate councils for Hulhudhoo, Meedhoo, and Feydhoo in Addu City.