The Maldives Journalists Association (MJA) has voiced concerns over the upcoming Maldives Media Council (MMC) elections. Scheduled for this Saturday, the election process has drawn criticism for alleged procedural lapses and last-minute changes.

In a statement released late last night, the MJA highlighted complaints from journalists regarding the conduct of the Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Community Empowerment, which oversees the elections. The concerns primarily revolve around changes made to the permanent voters' list after the official gazetted version had been published.

Journalists have pointed out that these changes contradict the election rules, which clearly stipulate deadlines and procedures for finalising the voters' list. Altering the list at the eleventh hour, they argue, undermines the fairness of the process and could infringe upon the rights of candidates.

The MJA also questioned the ministry’s decision to re-open aspects of the election process after the deadlines had passed and candidates had been finalised. This, the association stated, raises doubts about the transparency and integrity of the elections.

In response, the MJA has called for the elections to be postponed and demanded that future elections be managed by an independent organising committee, which would include media representatives. This, they believe, would ensure greater transparency and restore trust in the process.

Saturday’s elections aim to elect seven members from the media and three independent members to the MMC. Eleven candidates are contesting for media seats, with another eleven vying for independent positions.