“Frequent elections shift focus from service to campaigning” Shiyam warns

Fisheries Minister and PNC Deputy Leader Ahmed Shiyam expressed strong support for synchronizing presidential and parliamentary elections. He argued it would expand participation and reduce political and financial strain, noting high turnout in presidential elections but drops in separate parliamentary polls. He cited the 2024 parliamentary contest where around 368 candidates spent an estimated three million Rufiyaa each. Shiyam said fewer elections would allow focus on public services. The referendum on the constitutional change is scheduled for April 4, alongside local council and Women's Development Committee elections. The Maldivian Democratic Party opposes the plan.

Fisheries Minister and PNC Deputy Leader Ahmed Shiyam expressed strong support for synchronizing presidential and parliamentary elections. He argued it would expand participation and reduce political and financial strain, noting high turnout in presidential elections but drops in separate parliamentary polls. He cited the 2024 parliamentary contest where around 368 candidates spent an estimated three million Rufiyaa each. Shiyam said fewer elections would allow focus on public services. The referendum on the constitutional change is scheduled for April 4, alongside local council and Women's Development Committee elections. The Maldivian Democratic Party opposes the plan.

Fisheries Minister and PNC Deputy Leader Ahmed Shiyam expressed strong support for synchronizing presidential and parliamentary elections. He argued it would expand participation and reduce political and financial strain, noting high turnout in presidential elections but drops in separate parliamentary polls. He cited the 2024 parliamentary contest where around 368 candidates spent an estimated three million Rufiyaa each. Shiyam said fewer elections would allow focus on public services. The referendum on the constitutional change is scheduled for April 4, alongside local council and Women's Development Committee elections. The Maldivian Democratic Party opposes the plan.

This story involves 1 source and may affect public understanding of politics / elections.