US Senators urge Kerry to “consider all options” on Maldives
“We would urge the administration to consider all of the options at its disposal, which might be effective in influencing the government’s behavior,” Senators McCain and Reed said. “Together, we want to encourage the Maldives to take steps to restore confidence in its democratic path and judicial independence.”
22 Apr 2016, 9:00 AM
Two top US lawmakers have urged Secretary of State John Kerry to consider all options at his disposal to encourage Maldives President Abdulla Yameen to end a crackdown on democracy here.
In a letter dated April 12, Senators John McCain and Jack Reed, who head the Senate’s Armed Services Committee, said they were concerned over the prosecution of opposition politicians and growing religious extremism in the Maldives.
“Over the past year, we have seen little progress in the Maldives with respect to strengthening democracy and the rule of law,” the Senators said.
“Compounded by a lack of higher educational opportunities and high youth unemployment, violent extremism has found fertile ground for growth. We are greatly worried by reports of foreign fighters from the Maldives flowing to the Middle East.
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