The drawing of lots to allocate ballot numbers for candidates contesting the upcoming Local Council and Women’s Development Committee elections will be held tomorrow simultaneously across all islands at 10:00 a.m.

The Elections Commission said the process in Malé City will take place at Elections Centre in Maafannu, located in the former Drug Court building. In cities and other islands, the drawing of lots will be conducted at respective council secretariats or at venues designated by the councils.

The Commission stated that if a representative attends on behalf of a candidate, they must present an authorisation letter from the candidate. The letter must include the representative’s name and ID number, along with a copy of their ID card. The original ID card must also be produced at the venue.

The Local Council and Women’s Development Committee elections are scheduled for 4 April. A total of 2,994 candidates have submitted nominations to contest.

Candidates who wish to withdraw their candidacy may do so until 10:00 a.m. tomorrow. The withdrawal window will close once the drawing of lots is completed.

The final list of candidates, arranged according to ballot number, will be officially announced on Saturday.

Six political parties are taking part in the elections. Of the total candidates, 1,210 are representing political parties, while 401 are contesting as independent candidates.