25th August 2005

Male’s youth joined the Maldives Aid and the Go Vote Campaign on Thursday night for a 'coffee culture' style evening to discuss the upcoming elections and how they can make a difference to their country's future. ‘Free Coffee by Go Vote’ was the first voter education event to directly appeal to the city’s youth, providing young people with a forum to speak out and be heard. Maldives Aid is a contributing organisation to the Go Vote Campaign, which aims to increase voter awareness ahead of the 2008 Maldives presidential elections.

Approximately  300 18-25 year olds came together to listen to live music and enjoy complementary Lavazza coffee from 9pm at the Artificial Beach, while discussing their concerns about the 2008 presidential elections with representatives of the Go Vote Campaign, including Maldives Aid staff.

The 18 -25 voter group constitutes approximately 25% of the eligible voting population, many of whom will be first time voters in the upcoming presidential election.

Mariyam Seena of Maldives Aid said:

“The future of the country is in the hands of the intelligent young people we've met today.

“Many young men and women who came along will be first time voters, so it's vital they have the chance to understand how and why they should vote.

“We had some excellent discussions about the democratic process and why young people should get involved.

“For the first time, young Maldivians have the opportunity to make a difference in their country, they have a choice – but their choices will only count if they go vote!

Back to "Go Vote" campaign page