UN chief concerned about political developments in the Maldives

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has voiced his concern about the political situation in the Maldives, where former President Mohamed Nasheed has sought refuge in the Indian High Commission, and is urging all parties to work towards conditions conducive for the upcoming elections in line with the country’s Constitution.

“The Secretary-General is monitoring with concern the developments in the Maldives since Wednesday,” his spokesperson said in a statement issued last night.

Mr. Nasheed has been inside the Indian High Commission in the capital city of Malé since 13 February when police attempted to arrest him in a case relating to accusations that he illegally detained a judge during the last days of his rule, according to media reports.

The former leader was elected in 2008 in the first multi-party presidential elections in the country in three decades. He resigned in February of last year in contested circumstances, succeeded by his former deputy, Mohammed Waheed Hassan.

The Government set up a National Commission of Inquiry to probe the events leading to the regime change, with the Commission presenting its findings in August.

His supporters say the legal case against Mr. Nasheed is meant to bar him from running in the presidential elections, scheduled for 7 September 2013.

In last night’s statement, the Secretary-General urged all political actors “to exercise restraint, renew their commitment to the Constitution and work toward creating conducive conditions for fair, peaceful and inclusive elections.”

He added that all parties should field the candidates of their choice “in accordance with the rule of law and the Constitution.”