A survey conducted by the Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) has shown that 50 percent of respondents believe that employment by state institutions and government-owned companies is the most likely way to influence the election.
The Parliament Election: Public Perception Survey found that jobs are offered in state institutions and government-owned companies to influence the vote. Other methods of influencing the vote include announcing government projects and using state resources for political activities.
Survey respondents also believe money and gifts are distributed to influence elections.
Some key takeaways from the survey
- Fifty percent believe the biggest way to influence the vote is by offering jobs in state institutions and government-owned companies
- Twenty-seven percent believe the biggest way to influence the vote is by announcing government projects as the election approaches
- Fourteen percent believe that the use of state property and resources in political activities influences votes
- Fifty-nine percent said they know about the distribution of money and gifts to influence the vote
In addition to money and gifts, the survey also identified other instruments offered to win votes. These include medical care, Aasandha and National Social Protection Agency (NSPA) and other services provided by the government.
Some respondents said buying ID cards and selling drugs to young people are also common during the election season.
The Parliament Election: Public Perception Survey was conducted from March 1 to March 9 in the Male' region. A total of 1,174 people participated in the survey, including 642 women and 532 men.
