Maldives urged to ‘restore and uphold’ constitution

Maldivian authorities must take immediate steps to restore and uphold the principles enshrined in the constitution in the interests of its people, the European Union Delegation to Sri Lanka and the Maldives said Tuesday following the renewed arrest of an opposition lawmaker.

Faris Maumoon was taken into custody Saturday night accused of attempting to overthrow President Abdulla Yameen’s government by bribing politicians, days after he was released from six months in custody.

“The renewed arrest of MP Faris Maumoon shortly after he was conditionally released from prison, having being held for nearly six months without any trial date on separate charges, further indicates how detrimental to the rule of law and good government in the Maldives a breakdown of the principle of separation of executive, judicial and other powers would be,” the statement said.

It also urged authorities to “demonstrate genuine commitment to credible, transparent and inclusive election and pre-election processes, with the full participation of all political parties,” referring to presidential elections due to be held later this year.