Amid a persisting political crisis, the Election Commission (EC) of the Maldives has said the presidential elections will be held in September.
While the first round of the presidential polls is expected to be held in early September, a second round would follow in 21 days if necessary, the EC said on Thursday.
The government of Maldives has “warmly welcomed” the Commission’s decision to begin preparations, while sections remain sceptical about the possibility of a free and fair election.
State of emergency
The development comes at a time when the Indian Ocean archipelago nation is witnessing instability following President Abdulla Yameen’s declaration of a state of emergency on February 5, after defying a major Supreme Court ruling that set dissident leaders free.
Inviting foreign observers to the polls, the Male government requested the international community “to refrain from any actions that could hinder resolving” the current situation.
Earlier this week, President Yameen extended the emergency rule by 30 days, drawing sharp statements from the international community, including India, which expressed “deep dismay”.
Difficult period
Male accused India of ignoring facts and ground realities regarding the current political developments. In a statement issued on Thursday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the nation was experiencing one of the most difficult periods in its history.
“It is therefore important that friends and partners in the international community, including India, refrain from any actions that could hinder resolving the situation facing the country,” it said.
