Maldives: Police dispatched to atolls to provide security for local elections May 6

Event

Additional police officers were dispatched to the various atolls of the country with ballots on Sunday, April 30, to maintain security during the Local Council Election scheduled for Saturday, May 6. Officers will operate in all islands, in addition to islands which have police stations during the election period. Political protests may occur leading up to and through the elections.

Context

The outcome of May 6 polls will be a crucial gauge of support for President Abdulla Yameen’s three-year administration, which has been beset by multiple political crises, a corruption scandal, and a bitter leadership dispute splitting the ruling party. Presidential elections are scheduled for 2018.

Political protests have been taking place in the Maldives since January 2015. Demonstrations have mainly taken place in Malé and some have led to violence and arrests.

Advice

As a precautionary measure, individuals present in the Maldives should exercise caution on May 6 and avoid all demonstrations and public gatherings; violence may flare up without warning. Follow all instructions as issued by authorities.