First multi-party presidential election held

The Maldives held its first multi-party presidential election on 8 October 2008; allegations of voter fraud have marred the proceedings, increasing the risk of protests. Reports indicate that election officials may extend voting due to the fact that some voter registration lists are not matching official records. Violent pro-democracy demonstrations occurred in 2004, which President Gayoom -- who is running in the current election -- forcefully put down.