Issues highlighted by Supreme Court cannot be corrected before 19 October: PPM

The Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) has said that it would not be possible to correct the issues highlighted by the Supreme Court and hold the election before 19 October.

Vice President of PPM Abdul Raheem Abdulla said at a press conference on Thursday night, that it would not be possible to correct the issues mentioned in the 16-point guideline issued by the Supreme Court before 19 October.

“We don’t want to hold the election in haste. The election should not be held until the 16 points in the guideline issued by the Supreme Court are met. We don’t believe the 16 points can be fulfilled by 19 October,” said Abdul Raheem.

He said that a fair election cannot be held as long as the current members of the Elections Commission remain in their posts, and that PPM and Maldives Development Alliance (MDA) are ready to make efforts through the parliament to make the necessary changes to the Elections Commission.

Deputy Leader of MDA, Kudahuvadhoo MP Ahmed Amir said that the Elections Commission does not consult with the Attorney General when making decisions.

He said that the Supreme Court order to annul the election result proved that the commission had violated the law, and that the remaining four members of the commission should resign immediately.