Secretary-General, Welcoming Commission of Inquiry’s Report on Maldives Power

 

Transfer, Urges Parties to Accept Findings, Begin National Dialogue

 

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

The Secretary-General welcomes the release of the report today by the Commission of National Inquiry that has looked into the facts, circumstances and causes of the 7 February transfer of power in the Maldives.

The Commission was reconstituted in June with international assistance and has since been recognized by all parties as a credible inquiry mechanism.  The Secretary-General urges all parties to accept the findings of the Commission and now begin the process of national dialogue aimed at resolving the political problems facing the country.

To that end, he welcomes the start today of high-level political dialogue, and hopes that this leads to national reconciliation and a way of moving forward.  He is concerned at the prospect of renewed political tensions should any side not accept the outcome of the inquiry.  He calls on all parties to exercise maximum cooperation and restraint.

The Secretary-General calls on the parties to respect the Constitution, create a peaceful and transparent environment conducive to dialogue, and take steps to strengthen democratic reform and institutions.

The Secretary-General reaffirms the readiness of the United Nations to extend the necessary support and assistance requested by the parties.

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For information media • not an official record