Australia raps Maldivian Govt.

The Australian Government in a statement yesterday said it was increasingly concerned by the actions taken by the Maldives Government to undermine democracy and democratic institutions and reduce the prospect that the upcoming Presidential Election could be free and fair.

“As an Indian Ocean neighbour, Australia urges the Maldives Government to respect the fundamental rights and freedoms of all Maldivians, including freedom of assembly and speech and the right to participate fully in election processes. Australia calls in particular on the Maldives Government to release political prisoners and permit legitimate opposition activity, which is essential for any election to be credible,” the Australian High Commission said. 

The Australian Ambassador made these points while visiting the Maldives on 20 and 21 June.  Australia will continue to monitor the situation in the Maldives closely in the lead-up to the Presidential Elections.