President Dr Mohamed Waheed has promised to the people of Maldives and the international partners that his government will do the utmost to promote democracy in the country, in a statement issued this evening.
The statement reads as follows;
“I believe that it is in the national interest of Maldives to hold a free, fair and inclusive election this year in which all political parties are allowed to participate, including smaller political parties. In this respect I am pleased that the independent Maldives Election Commission has announced 7 September 2013 as the date for the next presidential election. Prior to the announcement I have invited friendly governments and international organisations to assist in preparations for the election and to provide international observers. I promise to the people of Maldives and our international partners that my government will do the utmost to promote democracy in the country.
My government has upheld the rule of law and respected all independent institutions. I am pleased to note that unlike in the past, within the last year, the President has not interfered in the work of the judiciary, the police, or the independent commissions. I am also pleased to note that last year was the first year in which the government functioned in Maldives without a government owned newspaper, radio or television.
I am confident that with the support of the 8 political parties and entities in this government, we will be able to maintain peace, stability and continuity leading to a free and fair multi-party election as scheduled. I hope that all political parties will find peaceful and non-combative approaches to conduct in election campaigns. I urge all political parties to avoid confrontational politics, to avoid violence and to respect the Maldivian constitution and laws.
I am dismayed that the former President Nasheed sought refuge in the Indian High Commission in Male’ when he was summoned to the court. The court order which required the Police to arrest Nasheed and have him appear before the court was due to his refusal to attend court hearing. It had expired at 1600 hours on the 13 February 2013, and there is no reason for him to remain in the High Commission and to instigate street violence. The court order has nothing to do with my government. Upholding the rule of law means nobody is above the law. I would like to assure the people of Maldives that the law and order will be maintained.”