The Elections Commission of the Maldives announces that applications are now open for individuals wishing to contest in the 2026 Local Council Election and the 2026 Women’s Development Committee Election.

 

In accordance with the Local Council Elections Act, and the Decentralization Act concerning the administrative governance of the Maldives, the opportunity to submit application forms for individuals wishing to contest positions to be elected to the Island Councils and City Councils has opened today. Applications will be accepted from today until 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, 1 February 2026.

 

Positions open for election include:

·       President of the Council

·       (Reserved seat) Women’s Council Member

·       Other Council Members

·       City Council Mayor

·       (Reserved seat) Women’s Council Member for the City

·       Other City Council Members

 

For the City and Island Women’s Development Committees, candidates will contest for the positions of President and Member. 

 

A total of 225 seats will be contested in the 2026 Local Council Election and the 2026 Women’s Development Committee Election across constituencies nationwide.

 

Applicants are required to submit their forms through their verified eFaas account via MyPortal. Submission hours are 08:30 to 15:30 on all days except Fridays, with 15:30 to 18:00 reserved specifically for Fridays.

 

Candidates with any outstanding debts must provide evidence of settlement, including official documentation from relevant authorities. Additionally, candidates are required to submit official documentation from the Department of Judicial Administration confirming debt clearance and a crime report. Where a court has issued orders requiring payments to the Maldives Inland Revenue Authority, a report confirming settlement must also be attached.

 

The Local Council Election and Women’s Development Committee Election are scheduled to take place on Saturday, 4 April 2026, from 08:00 to 16:00, with official results expected to be released on 11 April 2026.

T

he Elections Commission encourages all prospective candidates to submit their applications promptly and ensure that all required documents are complete to facilitate a transparent and orderly electoral process.