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COVID-19: Local Council Election delays could cost MVR 30 million, says EC

Ahmed Aiham
11 March 2020, MVT 16:00
Elections Commission (EC)'s President Ahmed Shareef. PHOTO: AHMED AWSHAN ILYAS / MIHAARU
Ahmed Aiham
11 March 2020, MVT 16:00

President of the Elections Commission (EC), Ahmed Shareef on Wednesday, noted that a decision to delay the Local Council Elections (LCE) could cost the state an additional MVR 30 million.

According to Shareef, EC has, till date, spent upwards of MVR 25 million on the election.

EC's statement came at a time when key political figures have urged the state to delay the upcoming elections slated for April 4.

Former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom called on the government to delay the LCE earlier on Tuesday. Experts from the hospitality industry have also projected a sharp decline in the tourism industry due to COVID-19 that could lead to an economic recession.

The electoral watchdog's Vice President Ahmed Akram, disclosed that the commission previously met to deliberate on how to proceed, should the nation's situation necessitate postponing the election.

Ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) also maintained that the current environment did not call for delays.

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