The Elections Commission of the Maldives (ECM) has announced that the Local Council and Women’s Development Committee (WDC) elections will be held on 28 March 2026, with the candidacy period opening on 17 January 2026.
Speaking on PSM News’ Raajje Miadhu programme, ECM President Mohamed Zahid said the elections are among the most complex administrative tasks undertaken by the Commission and require extensive early planning.
A key reform for 2026 is the digitisation of candidate registration, with all submissions to be made through a new ECM online portal. Zahid said the system will launch ahead of the official announcement to allow candidates time to familiarise themselves with the process and reduce last-minute difficulties.
The Commission plans to deploy around 270 temporary staff, including 110 trained trainers, and is currently recruiting island-level focal points to oversee local administrative arrangements. The total cost of the elections is estimated to be between MVR 70.1 million and MVR 80.2 million.
Public awareness sessions will also be held in 36 islands across 12 atolls during November and December, in collaboration with independent institutions and civil society groups, to encourage participation and ensure citizens are well informed ahead of the polls.
