Dr. Ikram Boycotts Adhaalath Party Presidential Election

Dr. Ikram Abdul Sattar has announced his decision to boycott the Adhaalath Party’s presidential election scheduled for the 31st of this month and has formally withdrawn his candidacy. He was contesting the party’s top post against its current Vice President, Sheikh Mohamed Shifan.

Earlier, Dr. Ikram had submitted a complaint to the Elections Commission, raising concerns that the party’s leadership could potentially manipulate the electronic voting system. In response, the party maintained that the election process complies with all regulatory requirements and stated that conducting the vote through a traditional ballot box system is not feasible at this time.

In an official statement, Dr. Ikram described the organization of the election as authoritarian and inconsistent with democratic principles and transparency. He cited serious concerns over the refusal to allow physical ballot box voting for general members and the denial of candidates’ requests to verify the voter list, including access to member contact information.

Dr. Ikram further alleged that leadership positions within party branches and constituencies are being filled by individuals lacking the required qualifications, without a proper electoral process. He also noted that party members had reported irregularities in previous online elections conducted by the party.

Concluding his statement, Dr. Ikram said his withdrawal was driven by the leadership’s decision to proceed with the election “by force,” disregarding the principles of consultation, reason, and fair conduct.