Statement on Maldives

The Commonwealth has had a long and deep association with Maldives in supporting its transition to multiparty democracy. The Secretary-General has been in regular contact with President Nasheed in recent days on the evolving situation, and the Secretariat remains engaged with various stakeholders in Maldives, encouraging all concerned to uphold the constitution and the rule of law.

The Executive, Parliament and Judiciary each play important and complementary roles in a democracy, as enshrined in the Commonwealth’s Latimer House Principles*. Maldives is a signatory to those principles and has committed itself to their implementation. We urge all parties to respect due process and the fundamental rights set out in the Constitution.

We reiterate our call for all political forces and stakeholders to work constructively together in the national interest to resolve the current tensions, so as to ensure that the progress made thus far in building a democratic society is not endangered or reversed. The Commonwealth stands ready to assist Maldives in consolidating its gains and the culture of democracy.

*Commonwealth Principles on the Accountability of and Relationship Between the Three Branches of Government