Journalists protest voter list changes before MMC polls
As the election approaches, the complainants urge the ministry to ensure transparency and fairness in the process.
Just three days before the Maldives Media Council (MMC) election, concerns have been raised by a group of journalists over alleged unauthorised changes to the voter list.
Six journalists lodged a formal complaint with the Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Community Empowerment on Thursday, expressing their dissatisfaction with what they claim are irregular alterations to the previously gazetted permanent voter list.
The letter, signed by Fathimath Shana Mohamed (Mihaaru), Hussain Hassan (Hathaavees Online), Hassan Shakir Mohamed (Aafathis), Fathimath Nahudha Faiz (Dhiyares), Hassan Mohammed (Adhadhu), and Fathimath Fahumee (private candidate), highlights several key issues:
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Alterations Without Proper Notification: The journalists allege that changes are being made to the permanent voter list without informing registered voters, contrary to the election rules. They emphasize that such changes must be transparent and gazetted, a step they claim has been overlooked.
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Violation of Election Rules: According to the rules governing MMC elections, the permanent voter list must be published at least 15 days before the election. The letter argues that altering the list at this stage, without proper procedure or notification, undermines the legitimacy of the process.
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Concerns Over External Influence: The journalists express fears that these changes could be influenced by external parties, potentially compromising the election's integrity. "Changing the permanent list will destroy the validity of the election. It is against the rules," said Hussain Hassan, a candidate representing Hathaavees Media.
An official from the ministry, who is involved in the election process, acknowledged that some media organisations had requested changes to the voter list, such as replacing their designated voters. The official explained:
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The ministry has been verifying the validity of such requests before making any alterations.
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These adjustments are consistent with practices in previous MMC elections.
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Any complaints regarding the changes are being addressed, with the finalised list to be shared in the media group after resolving issues.
While the Ministry defends the changes as standard procedure, the complainants argue that such adjustments should only occur under exceptional circumstances and with proper transparency. They point out that the election rules clearly outline deadlines for issuing and finalising the permanent voter list, and any deviation undermines trust in the process.
"The election committee must follow the rules and inform all stakeholders of any changes," the letter states. The journalists warn that failing to adhere to these standards could erode the credibility of the MMC election.
