Statement by the MDP in response to the Declaration of the Heads of Mission of the EU accredited to the Maldives

Contradictory to his oft repeated promises to the international community of “substantial reforms”, President Gayoom continues to flagrantly deny the people of the Maldives their fundamental political rights. Gayoom continues to deny the MDP its constitutional right to freedom of association while simultaneously keeping MDP activists and reformists in detention, preventing them from taking an active role in the elections.

Through a process of incarceration and systematic physical and mental torture, Gayoom has intimidated at least 9 members of the constituent assembly from seeking election. This includes two of his former cabinet members, I H Zaki and Dr Munawwar.

Gayoom’s regime continues to violate electoral laws including the intimidation of Atoll Chiefs, Island Chiefs and government servants in the Atolls to ensure the ‘success’ of pro-government candidates. Public funds and resources are openly used to fund government candidates whilst pro-democracy candidates and their supporters are intimidated and labelled as ‘traitors’ and ‘terrorists’.

Just hours after the EU Declaration on Monday, three pro-democracy campaigners, Eva Abdulla (cousin of MDP Councillor Mohamed Nasheed), Jennifer Latheef (daughter of MDP Spokesperson Mohamed Latheef) and Elena Abbas (daughter of MDP Councillor Ahmed Abbas), have been summoned for questioning by Gayoom’s security services.

The MDP calls on the international community to take effective, practical steps to ensure that the political rights of the Maldivian people, including the right to free and fair elections, are upheld by President Gayoom.