Reference: 40/03/2012

21 March 2012

The Maldives Democratic Party (MDP) welcomes the latest statement (20 March) by the High Representative Catgherine Ashton on behalf of the European Union which reiterates the importance of early democratic elections and impartial investigation of the transfer of power on 7th February which overthrew the first democratically elected Government in a police and military backed coup.

“Agreement on the holding of early elections, on the independent investigation of the transfer of power of February 7 and restablshment of the correction functioning of government and parliamanet is now more important than ever” said the EU statement. MDP notes with deep concern that despite the party’s continued efforts to achieve a political agreement to legtimise the government and put the democratic process back in place, Dr. Waheed regime has refused to commit to an early election date.

Furthremore, MDP has raised concerns at all levels on the flawed national inquiry mission put together by Dr. Waheed and his lack of commitment to an impartial investigation in partnership with international bodies.

MDP will continue to hold peaceful political activity and reaffirms its commitment to political dialogue which it hopes to be reconvened as soon as possible to resolve the current crisis.

“MDP will continue to work closely with the EU and other international partners to ensure we hold early elections this year. The EU, Commonwealth and many of our development partners have echoed this. The regime must not disregard their concerns for the people of the Maldives.” said Hamid Abdul Ghafoor, MDP spokesperson for international affairs.

ENDS

Hamid Abdul Ghafoor

Spokesperson, International Affairs

Mobile: +9607778285

Tel: +9603340044