Some political actors in violation of Constitution, they are the ones undermining democracy: Maldives to Australia
On Tuesday, the Australian Embassy released a statement expressing "increasing concern" by the Maldivian government actions that "undermine democracy and democratic institutions"
Australian Ambassador Bryce Hutchesson with President Abdulla Yameen
The government of Maldives, in its response to Australia's concern over upcoming presidential elections, has said that some political actors "are in clear violation of the Constitution and laws of the country".
On Tuesday, the Australian Embassy released a statement expressing "increasing concern" by the Maldivian government actions that "undermine democracy and democratic institutions" adding that it minimizes "the prospect that the upcoming presidential election can be free and fair".
While Australia urged the government to "respect the fundamental rights and freedoms of all Maldivians", it also reiterated its call to release all political prisoners "and permit legitimate opposition activity".
The government of Maldives responded on Wednesday, saying that "it is vital that all political actors conduct their activities responsibly in accordance with the Constitution and all relevant rules and regulations of the country", adding that it is committed "to ensure a free, fair and inclusive election in which all eligible candidates are granted an equal opportunity to contest".
However, the statement issued by the foreign ministry expressed concern over the actions of "some" political actors, which it claimed "are in clear violation of the Constitution and the laws of the country". It said that these are the ones that are undermining "democratic values and the rule of law".
"Since the introduction of the multi-party system in 2008, all elections held, including the parliamentary elections in 2014 and local government elections in 2014 and 2017 as well as several by-elections, held during the term of the incumbent government, were declared by the international and local observers as free, fair and credible. Therefore, the Government is confident that there is no room for the presidential elections scheduled for September this year to be an exception," reads the statement.
The international community, including Australia, has been expressing concern over the current political situation in the Maldives, including the government's continued persecution of opposition members and how the current situation does not give room for a free and fair presidential election.
While the first round of the presidential election is slated for September 23, lawmakers of the ruling Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) are currently working to tighten the eligibility criteria for presidential candidates so as to secure a smooth win for incumbent President Abdulla Yameen.
