The Maldivian Democratic Party expresses grave concern over the deteriorating political situation in the Maldives.

Arrest of the Vice President on Saturday is the latest in a series of high profile actions taken against senior Government officials in an environment of increasingly heightened political tension.

The MDP notes with concern the recent large deployments of security services, sudden changes at senior levels of the Police and MNDF, restriction of media, cordoning off of public spaces and searches of private residences by the armed forces without adequate explanation from the Government.

MDP Spokesperson Hamid Abdul Ghafoor said:

“The security services last night stated that they would be cordoning off Male’s waterfront to the media and public during the Vice President’s arrival for his safety and security, but this afternoon the Police arrested the Vice President upon arrival in connection to the alleged assassination attempt on the President. These contrasting statements and actions serve to effect the institutional integrity of the Police service. leading to further instability is not helpful for Maldives’ already fragile democracy and the economy. We call upon the international community to remain vigilant and urge the Government to address public concerns over the ongoing political crisis.”