Political unrest in the Maldives

Political unrest in the Maldives 09/02/2012

Political demonstrations are currently taking place in the Maldives, as violent clashes break out between protestors, the military and the police.

Demonstrators have taken to the streets of Male in objection to the arrest of a senior judge, who was accused by the government of political bias. The former president of the country, Mohamed Nasheed, has resigned, and claims he was forced to do so at gunpoint. He was elected in 2008 in the country's first democratic presidential election. On Wednesday, Mr Nasheed held a mass meeting with members of his Maldivian Democratic Party before marching together to Republic Square in Male.

The police are being accused of harsh brutality, beating protestors and using tear gas, trapping members of the public in buildings. These claims are being backed by human rights activist organization, Amnesty International.

The FCO (Foreign and Commonwealth Office) advise against all but essential travel to Male Island. However, there are currently no reports of unrest at Male International Airport (situated on the island of Hulhule) or at the tourist resorts. Travellers are advised to remain vigilant and avoid large crowds or spontaneous gatherings.

Vice-president Waheed Hassan was inaugurated shortly after Mr Nasheed's resignation and now denies a coup has occurred or that there was a plot to seize governmental control. He has stated his priorities as being the formation of a coalition in order to build a stable and democratic country. Presidential elections are due again next year.

JC.

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