Reference: 42/03/2012

24March 2012

The Maldivian Democratic Party welcomes Commonwealth Special Envoy, Sir Donald McKinnon’s departing statement from the Maldives and notes that the best interests of the nation would be served through the holding of early elections within this calendar year.


The MDP expresses gratitude to Sir McKinnon for the time he spent in the Maldives meeting key stakeholders involved in the current political crisis facing the country and reiterates its commitment to all Party talks and the achievement of a political solution.


It is also encouraging to note Sir McKinnon’s reassurance of Commonwealth assistance in the conduction of an impartial investigation into the coup d’etat of 7th February 2012. As Sir McKinnon, the EU, CMAG and other international partners continue to stress, the MDP also highlights the need for an impartial investigation with strong international presence.


The MDP also hopes Sir McKinnon will continue to remind Dr. Waheed’s regime of the importance of the country’s security forces acting with restraint and allowingthe conduct of peaceful political activity as guaranteed by the constitution.

ENDS

Hamid Abdul Ghafoor
Spokesperson, International Affairs
Mobile: +9607778285
Tel: +9603340044