Brussels, 21/10/2013 (Agence Europe) - “Deeply concerned” that the presidential elections in the Maldives, planned for 19 October, were again prevented from taking place and that the work of the election commission had to be halted following the intervention of the police, High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton said, on 20 October, that if the democratic process is to be brought back “on track”, “a new date must be set without delay so that the Maldivian people can freely choose a new president by 11 November, in conformity with the constitution”.
The EU “recalls that elections cannot successfully be held if the process can be repeatedly brought to a halt through legal injunctions. The forces of law and order must facilitate the democratic process”, Ashton added, stating that the EU reiterates its confidence in the impartiality and efficiency of the Maldivian election commission. The first round of the elections, on 7 September, was cancelled due to presumed irregularities - although it was recognised as “inclusive and credible” by the international community.
Failure to hold credible elections would deny democratic rights to the Maldivian people, Ashton stated, adding that instability would damage the country's economy and its relations with its international partners. (CG/transl.fl)