President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has issued Presidential Decree No. 2/2026 to hold a public referendum seeking citizens’ approval for holding the Presidential and People’s Majlis elections concurrently.

The proposed constitutional amendment, passed by the People’s Majlis on 10 February 2026, would allow both elections to be held at the same time and adjust the commencement date of the People’s Majlis term. Under Article 262(b) of the Constitution and the Public Referendum Act (Act No. 2025/15), such amendments must be approved by the public before the President can ratify them.

The referendum question asks: “Do you approve the ratification of the Eighth Amendment to the Constitution, which provides for the Presidential and People’s Majlis elections to be held concurrently and for a change to the term of the People’s Majlis?”

The vote is scheduled for Saturday, 4 April 2026, to coincide with the Local Council and Women’s Development Committee elections. The Elections Commission has been tasked with organizing and conducting the referendum in line with the law.

If a majority of voters approve, the President must ratify the amendment and publish it in the Government Gazette within 15 days. If not, the amendment will be void.