HRCM closes it’s workshop on ‘Right to vote-Training on elections observation’

News | 16 August 2008

The Human Rights Commission of the Maldives has ended its three day workshop on ‘Right to vote- Elections observation which was held in collaboration with the Commonwealth Secretariat.

As the right to vote is one of the most fundamental rights ensured under a democracy, the role of HRCM in the up coming elections is to ensure an environment that embraces human rights in the electoral laws and regulations and in the administrative procedures set in place for the elections. Hence, the purpose of this workshop was to provide the staff of HRCM and concerned NGOs with the necessary training to build their capacity in the work of observing elections, according to the laws and regulations and in compliance with international best practices.

Addressing the gathering at the closing ceremony of the training, the Vice President of the Commission Mr. Mohamed Zahid stated that the Human Rights Commission would be working to ensure voting rights not only in the upcoming presidential elections but also in all the elections ahead. And he noted that the cooperation and assistance of the NGOs in this endeavour of HRCM is most crucial and important.

Speaking on behalf of the participants, Ms. Reeman Haris of Maldives Detainee Network thanked the HRCM for organizing this training and stated that as the only domestic organization present at the function observing the presidential elections the training opened their eyes to many unexpected challenges and responsibilities.

Along with the HRCM staff ten NGO’s working in this field took part in this training that was held on 13, 14 and 16 August 2008. Among the participants two island based NGOs were represented.

This workshop was conducted by Commonwealth consultants and experts in this field. Dr. David Ward and Dr. Paikiasothy Saravanamuttu.

A public forum initiated by HRCM was also held at Ghiyaasudheen School Hall on 15 August 2008, from 16:30hrs to 17:30hrs where a question and answer session was followed by a lecture.