EC urges to exercise equality among presidential candidates

Elections Commission (EC)'s chairman Fuad Thaufeeq (C) speaks to press on July 12, 2023. (Sun Photo/Mohamed Shathiu Abdulla)

Elections Commission (EC) has urged to exercise equality among presidential candidates.

The election authority’s remarks come at a time of criticism and anger from independent candidates over Sangu TV’s decision to include only candidates representing political parties in the presidential debate hosted by the channel slated for Saturday.

Hassan Zameel, who is contesting the election independently, in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, said he viewed the exclusion of independent candidates from Sangu TV’s presidential debate, after state broadcaster PSM’s debate was canceled, following which they have decided to partner up with Sangu TV, as an infringement of his rights. He also noted that he had lodged a complaint with the EC over the matter.

Faris Maumoon, who is also contesting the election independently, shared the post, expressing his agreement.

Speaking to Sun, EC’s Vice Chairperson Ismail Habeeb confirmed receiving the complaint from Zameel, however, said no complaints have been received from the remaining two independent candidates.

Habeeb said the issue needs to be raised with Maldives Broadcasting Commission. He, on behalf of EC, called to exercise quality among presidential candidates.

The other independent candidate contesting the presidential election is former home minister Umar Naseer, who has yet to comment on the matter.

PSM had formed a partnership with Sangu TV for their presidential debate slated for 9:00pm this Saturday, after the cancellation of the channel’s own.

Main ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP)’s presidential candidate, President Ibrahim Mohamed whose participation in the debate had been a contentious question, is confirmed to attend as well, subsequent to the cancellation of PSM’s debate.

Prior to this, he said his intention to prioritize campaign-related travels would prevent him from attending the Sangu TV’s presidential debate. He later confirmed he would attend the debate planned by PSM instead.

Candidates contesting the election on political parties’ tickets are;