MDP raises concerns over forgery of membership forms with EC
Fayyaz also criticised actions that he claimed undermined the integrity of the commission.
Opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) leaders visited the Elections Commission (EC) headquarters on Monday to express concerns over allegations of individuals being unknowingly registered as members of political parties.
The issue has reportedly been identified primarily in forms submitted by the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) as part of its campaign to reach 75,000 members. The PNC has not issued an official statement regarding the allegations.
The matter escalated with the inclusion of a case involving former MDP Member of Parliament Hussain Ziyad, who was introduced as a member of the PNC on Monday. The Elections Commission attributed the incident to administrative errors but has not resolved the broader concerns.
MDP leaders met with EC officials, marking their second formal engagement with the commission on this issue. They demanded an immediate halt to the processing of what they described as "fake forms."
Speaking to Raajje TV from inside the commission, MDP Chairman Fayyaz Ismail highlighted the party’s concerns.
“These issues have been brought to the attention of the Elections Commission for a long time. With the dismissal of our National Assembly members, we feel it is necessary to escalate this matter. We are here to seek a resolution from the commission,” Fayyaz stated.
Following the meeting, Fayyaz called on the EC to provide assurance to the public and political parties that these issues would be addressed ahead of the elections.
“The Elections Commission is a crucial institution in the democratic process. It represents the power and will of the people,” Fayyaz said.
He also criticised actions that he claimed undermined the integrity of the commission.
“We are witnessing a political party attempting to compromise the reputation of the Elections Commission and create a climate of fear among the public,” he added.
Fayyaz concluded by expressing hope that the EC would fulfil the assurances given during the meeting and work to restore its credibility.
