President Dr Mohamed Waheed has decided not to pursue 2013 presidential election, following the cancellation of the first round of elections by the Maldives Supreme Court. His office says he took this decision in the greater interest of the country at a time when the integrity of the independent Elections Commission and the election process are being challenged. The court found serious flaws with the election register and considered other allegations of irregularities.
The President will continue until his term expires on 11 November, when a new president is expected to be sworn in. Disputes arising out of the first round have caused serious disagreements among the political parties, the Elections Commission and the Supreme Court. During the remaining time, the President will do his best to maintain peace and stability, to ensure the election process continues with greater fairness, and to steer the country through these difficult times.
Although President Waheed scored the least number of votes in the first round, he continues to be highly respected for the calmness with which he has managed the country, and for maintaining peace and stability in the nation.