Officials were transparent, procedures were followed consistently: Commonwealth Observer Group

The 17-member Commonwealth Observer Group currently in the Maldives to observe the September 7th presidential elections has published their interim statement today.

In his statement, Chair of the Commonwealth Observer Group Dr Lawrence Gonzi noted that the voter register appeared to be accurate and robust and that fears expressed by some political parties regarding possible large numbers of deceased voters and voters registered in the wrong geographic area seem to be unfounded, based on the low incidence of election day complaints.

He noted that in the few instances of omission or incorrect registration that were observed, it was clear that polling officials followed the prescribed procedures to resolve complaints.

The Group also stated that they observed a large early turnout, particularly in Malé, and was struck by the calm and patient manner in which voters conducted themselves.

The vote count at the polling station was highly transparent with media monitors, party observers, and national and international observers able to scrutinise the process closely. Polling officials were methodical in their approach, explaining decisions on any invalid ballots to those present.

Concluding the statement, the Chair stated that the Commonwealth observers will be present for the second round of voting on 28 September, and will make their final assessment following the conclusion of the electoral process.