As the 20th Parliament 2024 elections kick off, a notable 32.75% of eligible voters cast their ballots within the first 4 hours.

The voting, which began at 8 am, is slated to continue until 5:30 PM, with the Election Commission (EC) extending additional time as needed.

Over 5000 EC officials are overseeing the elections, ensuring smooth arrangements for voters across the country.

With 93 constituencies in play, a total of 368 independent candidates and numerous party-affiliated contenders, notably from the ruling party PNC, vie for seats.

A total of 284,663 eligible voters, comprising 145,302 men and 139,361 women, are expected to participate.

The distribution of 602 vote boxes includes 181 in Male, 9 in Villimale’, 51 in Hulhumale’, and 319 in the islands, with additional 34 boxes in resorts, 5 in prisons, and 3 in abroad.

By noon, 41,980 women and 51,244 men had cast their votes, amounting to a significant portion of the electorate.

With 5 hours and 30 minutes remaining, the elections are in full swing, showcasing the democratic participation of Maldivian citizens.