US expresses concern over emergency in Maldives

WASHINGTON: Voicing concern over imposition of emergency in Maldives, the US has asked the Maldivian government to immediately restore full constitutional freedoms and end politically motivated prosecutions and detentions.

"The US calls on the Government of Maldives to restore immediately full constitutional freedoms to its citizens by terminating the state of emergency," State Department Spokesman John Kirby said.

Kirby also asked Maldives to end politically motivated prosecutions and detentions, including that of former president Mohamed Nasheed.

In a statement, he asked the Maldivian government to respect and protect freedom of expression and the important role of civil society, both of which are essential to any robust democracy.

Kirby said the US is deeply concerned with recent events in Maldives, including the announcement of a state of emergency that curtails vital civil liberties and human rights and fundamental freedoms, including the freedom of peaceful assembly, the freedom of movement, and safeguards against arbitrary detention and arbitrary and unlawful interference with one's privacy.

Maldivian President Abdulla Yameen yesterday declared a state of emergency for 30 days citing threat to national security and gave sweeping powers to security forces while suspending right to freedom of movement and assembly after arms and explosives were found near his palace.