Concerned about Rising Tension in Maldives, Secretary-General Urges Restraint

 

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General is concerned by rising political tension in the Maldives, which culminated in some violent demonstrations earlier this week.   He urges all political parties to restrain those who promote violence and confrontation, and to resolve their differences through dialogue.  Political rivalries should not be allowed to jeopardize the significant gains the country has registered in democratic reform.

The Secretary-General also urges the Government and all parties to ensure the rule of law is maintained, and to safeguard the rights and protections enshrined in the Constitution.

The Secretary-General recognizes the positive steps taken by the Maldives to advance democracy in recent years and underlines the importance of cooperation and accommodation among the various political actors as an essential ingredient of building democracy.  The United Nations stands ready to assist the Maldives.

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For information media • not an official record