Dhivehi Observer :: Peoples Press ::

Press Release
New Hope for Democratic Reform as Exiled Political Leader Returns to Maldives

28.04.2005 - www.friendsofmaldives.org

Friends of Maldives (FOM) is hopeful that the return from self-imposed exile of Mohamed Nasheed, Chairperson of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), will open up a new era of meaningful democratic reform in the Maldives. However, FOM remains concerned that he may be subject to arbitrary arrest.

In January this year President Gayoom said “The time is right for more sweeping changes. That is why I have proposed a new package of reform in which I envisage a multi-party political system.” He said the reforms will be carried out “within one year”.

Whilst FOM commends the President’s stated intentions, we remain seriously concerned that despite the rhetoric of reform, very little is changing on the ground.

Just last week, another victim of police torture, Maaish Mohamed, was bought into hospital from police detention with serious back injuries. On March 9th, the Maldives witnessed the death of yet another youth, Muaviath Mahmood, in police custody. Nobody has been arrested following these incidents.

The return of Mohamed Nasheed represents an important step in the transition to democracy in the Maldives. FOM hope the return of the Chairperson of the only opposition party (which remains banned in the Maldives) will act as a catalyst for achieving the President's public commitments to reform.

The MDP says it stands for democratic reform, the protection of human rights and the creation of the rule of law through peaceful means. These are objectives FOM strongly support.

If President Gayoom allows Mohamed Nasheed to operate freely and without hindrance to deliver on his stated objectives of peacefully building up the party, the MDP will become the first party in the history of the country to function as an open and transparent political entity.

This would be an immensely positive step forward in the political development of the Maldives and a great credit to the democratic credentials and vision of President Gayoom.