President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has expressed support for holding the Presidential and Parliamentary elections on the same day, stating that it would strengthen democracy and increase voter participation.

Speaking at a Taraweeh gathering organized by the People's National Congress at Artificial Beach, the President said the opposition now opposes merging the two elections despite previously supporting the idea. He suggested their position has changed as the elections approach.

The President argued that conducting both elections simultaneously would benefit the country by encouraging higher voter turnout. Citing past election statistics, he noted that presidential elections in the Maldives consistently record higher participation than parliamentary elections. For example, voter turnout exceeded 85 percent in several presidential elections since 2008, while parliamentary elections generally recorded lower percentages, often below 80 percent.

He emphasized that members of the People's Majlis carry significant responsibilities, including passing laws, amending legislation, and approving the national budget. Therefore, he said, it is important that they are elected with the broadest possible public participation.

From a democratic perspective, the President stated that holding both elections on the same day would allow more citizens to vote and ensure stronger representation. He appealed to the public to support conducting the Presidential and Parliamentary elections together.