India is deeply disappointed that the repeat first round of the Presidential elections was not held as scheduled today, October 19and that the Elections Commission was not allowed to proceed with holding elections as per its Constitutional mandate.
India and the international community have been closely watching the developments in Maldives and are seriously concerned at the attempts to stall the democratic process. It is for the people of Maldives to decide their future, and their strong desire to elect a new president is evident from theturnout of 88% in the first round of elections held on September 7, 2013, which was considered free and fair by the large contingent of international and domestic observers present.
Keeping in mind the wishes and aspirations of the people of Maldives, who have so far shown admirable patience and restraint, it is important that the electoral process is put back on track immediately with a definite timeline so that a new president is elected and sworn in on November 11, 2013 as mandated by the constitution.
India calls upon the Government of Maldives and all parties concerned to fulfiltheir responsibility towards the people of Maldives by playing a constructive role in the elections process and fully assisting the Elections Commission in holding the Presidential elections without further delay.India also calls upon all parties to abjure violence and maintain calm.
New Delhi
October 19, 2013
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