PNF also express concern over parliamentary election’s date

The political party being formed by former president Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayyoom – People’s National Front (PNF) – has also expressed concern about the parliamentary election being held in Ramadan.

Elections Commission (EC) has announced that the parliamentary elections would be held on March 17 – which falls within the first week of Ramadan.

Speaking to Sun regarding the matter on behalf of PNF, former Technology Minister Mohamed Maleeh Jamal said Ramadan is a month of devotion.

He said holding the election will not only pose difficulties to voters, but also officials who will work at polling stations.

Maleeh, noting a lower voter turnout can be expected if the election is held in Ramadan, said it will also be burdensome for senior citizens to go and vote during Ramadan. He also cited the vote counting time coinciding with dusk, during which people will break their fasts, as a huge concern of the party.

Maleeh also expressed concern over the possibility of deception during voting counting as it would coincide with Magrib, Isha and Taraweeh prayers which would be performed many. 

Opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has also expressed concern over the parliamentary election being held on Ramadan. EC had announced the election after MDP had requested the commission to hold the election post-Ramadan.

The party has pointed the finger at the government over the matter.