Reference No: 25 /11/2013

9 November 2013

First round of elections peaceful and smooth – MDP

The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) congratulates the people of the Maldives for peacefully and patiently voting in the new first round of presidential elections. The Maldivian people have, once again, shown their unrelenting commitment to democracy.

The MDP is pleased to note that today’s polls proceeded smoothly, without major incident. The elections were observed by over 2,000 party officials as well as local and international election monitors. The isolated complaints received by the MDP mainly related to the voter registry and predominantly involved issues such as spelling errors in the voters list compiled in accordance to the Supreme Court guideline. In most cases, Election Commission staff promptly resolved the issues and people were able to cast their vote.

The MDP would like to extend its thanks to the Election Commission and their staff, who worked tirelessly under difficult circumstances to ensure today’s vote took place. The MDP would also like to thank the international community, Maldivian civil society groups and all independent election monitors, whose efforts have helped to uphold Maldivian democracy.

The MDP calls on all political parties and State institutions to ensure that the will of the people is respected.

ENDS
Ali Shiyam
Deputy Chairperson
Mobile: +9607771327
Tel: +9603340044