Adhaalath Party says ballot boxes cannot be used in its January 31 internal election for party president

The Adhaalath Party says its internal election rules do not allow ballot boxes to be placed for the party’s presidential election scheduled for January 31.

The party’s presidential candidates are Dr. Ikram Abdul Sattar and Adhaalath Party Vice President Sheikh Mohamed Shifan. Dr. Ikram submitted a letter on Tuesday requesting that ballot boxes be used for the vote.

In response, the party’s Election Committee Chair Ali Rasheed Ikram said the election will be conducted strictly in line with the party’s constitution and internal election regulations. He stated that the current rules do not permit the placement of ballot boxes.

The committee said the election process will be carried out in a manner that ensures freedom and transparency, and urged members not to make statements that could cast doubt on the election.

Sheikh Shifan is contesting with the backing of President Imran Abdullah, Sheikh Iyaz Abdul Latheef, and Sheikh Ilyas Hussain.

The Adhaalath Party will elect its new president on January 31.

It is noteworthy that on April 30, 2013, then‑Islamic Minister Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed announced his intention to rejoin the party and contest for its presidency, though he is not contesting this election.