The Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) has stated that it has not received any issues that raise concerns over the validity of votes in today’s elections.

In a post shared on X, the commission said voting has been conducted generally in a smooth and orderly manner, noting that no incidents have been observed so far that could call into question the legitimacy of the electoral process.

The HRCM said 78 of its staff have been deployed across 21 islands in 18 atolls to observe the local council elections, Women’s Development Committee (WDC) elections and the public referendum being held simultaneously. Observers began monitoring polling stations from 6:30 a.m. and will continue until the close of voting.

According to the commission, a total of 104 ballot boxes are being monitored across the atolls, in addition to 208 boxes in the Greater Malé Region, including the ballot box placed at Maafushi Prison.

The Elections Commission has extended queue closing time from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. due to increased voter turnout, with voting to continue for those already in line at the time of closure.