President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has said that holding presidential and parliamentary elections on the same day would reduce political influence in the electoral process and allow more people to participate in voting.

The President made the remarks while speaking at the closing ceremony of a cycle rally organised by the People’s National Congress (PNC) in Malé City.

According to the President, conducting the two elections simultaneously would enable voters to cast their ballots freely without external influence. He added that there are no legal obstacles to holding presidential and parliamentary elections on the same day.

President Dr Muizzu also noted that when parliamentary elections are held months after a presidential election, candidates representing the ruling government may gain an advantage in campaigning. Holding both elections on the same day, he said, would ensure that voters determine the government and parliament at the same time, reducing the possibility of undue influence.

The President further stated that conducting the elections simultaneously would encourage greater voter participation.

The proposed constitutional amendment seeks to allow presidential and People’s Majlis elections to be held on the same day, with the parliamentary term set to begin on 1 December. A public referendum on the proposed amendment is scheduled to be held alongside the upcoming Local Council and WDC elections on 4  April.