EC probes leak of list of Democrats' members

Elections Commission (EC) has launched an investigation after a list of people who signed up for The Democrats – a new party spearheaded by Parliament Speaker Mohamed Nasheed – leaked online, before the list was publicized by the commission.

The Democrats allege the leak came from within the EC.

EC’s chairman Fuad Thaufeeq told Sun the commission received a complaint from the party over the issue on Saturday.

Fuad said he has directed the commission’s officials to investigate it as a serious issue.

“I have instructed the SG to question relevant staff, take statements where necessary and investigate this. I have not received an update yet,” he said.

Fuad said he will take action against staff found to have been involved in the leak.

In a press conference Saturday, former deputy leader of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) Mohamed Shifaz said they found the leak of the names deeply concerning, and considered it a serious issue.

He also alleged that pro-government officials were calling and threatening the people on the list.

The party has filed the case with the police.

The Democrats is being formed by the faction loyal to Nasheed who left MDP following difference in opinion with President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and his faction. Those who have signed up for The Democrats include 13 former MDP MPs. The party filed for registration with 3,560 membership forms last week. Once registered, it will become the minority party at the Parliament.