UK concerned at delay of Maldives Presidential elections
Foreign Office Minister Alistair Burt underlines need for second round of elections to go ahead without further delay.
Foreign Office Minister Alistair Burt said:
I am extremely concerned at the decision to delay the second round of Presidential elections in the Maldives, pending the outcome of the Supreme Court’s decision on allegations of alleged discrepancies relating to the first round of elections.
I recognise the right of the Maldivian courts to ensure legitimate allegations of electoral malpractice are investigated appropriately. However, it is vital to avoid any unnecessary disruptions to the national electoral process, and for representatives from all sides to be represented during any legal proceedings. In light of the widely held judgment of both international and domestic observers that elections were free and fair, I hope that the second round of elections will go ahead without further delay. It is especially important that the second round of elections is held within the timescales specified in the Maldives constitution.
I urge all parties to take action to ensure that the people of the Maldives are able to complete this democratic process in the calm, transparent and engaged manner which was demonstrated during the first round.
Further information
Follow Foreign Office Minister Alistair Burt on twitter @AlistairBurtFCO
Follow the Foreign Office on twitter @foreignoffice