Sharma welcomes new Constitution in Maldives

The Commonwealth Secretary-General on 8 August 2008 welcomed the ratification of the new Constitution of the Republic of Maldives.

“This is a major milestone in the history of the Republic of Maldives. It represents the beginning of a new phase in Maldives' journey to democracy. Multiparty politics and the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms will be strengthened,” said Kamalesh Sharma.

“It is important that the final aspects of the reform process are now completed in good time for the elections, scheduled to be held by 10 October 2008.”

The Secretary-General added: “It is of paramount importance that crucial election-related legislation is now enacted. Key independent institutions, such as the Electoral Commission and Supreme Court, must now be created speedily. These institutions must enjoy wide public and political confidence in terms of their membership, independence and capacity, so that the reform process, begun in 2005, can be successfully concluded.”

The Secretary-General has asked the Commonwealth Secretariat’s Director of Political Affairs, Matthew Neuhaus, to visit Malé for consultations with government, political parties and others to clarify the way ahead following the passage of the Constitution, and in keeping with the strategic partnership between the Government of Maldives and the Commonwealth to achieve reform in the area of democratic governance.

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• Law
• Country Profile: Maldives