MDP condemns arbitrary imprisonment at the dreaded Dhoonidhoo jail of Mr.Mohamed Shihab MP and Mr.Hassan Afeef MP
25 Nov 2004, 2:08 AM
Minivan News
Reports from Male’ have confirmed that the police have imprisoned two respected parliamentarians Mr.Mohamed Shihab and Mr.Hassan Afeef. The Maldivian Democratic Party strongly condemns their imprisonment without charge, their being held incommunicado and without access to legal assistance.
The MDP sees this police action as an attempt by the Government to intimidate opposition MPs, in blatant disregard to national and international concerns over irregular and illegal means and attempts by the Government to interfere and influence the outcome of forthcoming general elections.
The MDP therefore makes this urgent appeal to the concerned international community to make representations on behalf of Mr Shihab and Mr.Afeef.
In particular, the MDP requests all stakeholders in the future stability of the Maldives to pressure the Maldivian government to: ensure the election process is free and fair and in accordance with international standards – specifically, the Maldivian government must desist from harassing MDP candidates and must allow the registration of the MDP; that all who wish to stand for election are allowed to stand and campaign freely; that the electorate and the media are allowed to engage in open debate; and that state resources are not used to favor some candidates more than others.
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