Transparency Maldives has stated that overall arrangements for the ongoing local council, Women’s Development Committee and a public referendum seeking views on whether presidential and parliamentary elections should be held on the same day are satisfactory, based on initial observations across polling stations.

In a statement, the organisation said voting began with proper administrative arrangements and in a transparent and orderly manner. Observations conducted across the Greater Malé Region and 15 atolls found that of 26 polling stations, 15 opened by 8:10 a.m., while all stations were operational by 9:00 a.m.

Transparency Maldives noted that officials were present at all polling stations at the start of voting and that adequate ballot materials were available, with ballot papers counted prior to polling. It also observed that empty ballot boxes were displayed before voting commenced, while most stations had representatives from political parties or candidates present.

The organisation further reported that police were stationed outside 25 of the 26 polling stations at the start of voting, and that measures were in place at most locations to ensure the secrecy of the ballot. However, it said it would continue monitoring certain polling stations where there are concerns that voting secrecy could be compromised.

Transparency Maldives also called for a peaceful environment during and after the elections and urged eligible voters to participate in the process. It added that its observers will remain stationed at polling centres until vote counting begins.