Maldives election process should proceed unhindered: India

NEW DELHI: India today said it is of "utmost importance" that the electoral process in Maldives is allowed to proceed unhindered and hoped that the second round of Presidential elections there will be held in a transparent, organised and peaceful manner.

The remarks come a day after former President Mohammed Nasheed-led Maldivian Democratic Party sought reconvening of the Parliament, fearing annulment by the Supreme Court of the first round of presidential elections held on September 7 in which he emerged as the front-runner for the top job.

"... India believes that it is of utmost importance that the electoral process is allowed to proceed unhindered so that the second round is conducted according to schedule and the will of the people of Maldives is fully recognised," the spokesperson in the Ministry of External Affairs said here.

The controversy in Maldives erupted after the Supreme Court there admitted a plea filed by the Jumhooree Party (JP) to annul presidential polls held on September 7 alleging irregularities.

"We have seen reports on developments in the aftermath of the first round of the Presidential elections in Maldives, held on September 7, 2013. We once again commend the people and Government of Maldives for successfully conducting the first round of Presidential elections in a peaceful and organised manner," the spokesperson said.

The exceptionally high turnout of voters as well as smooth conduct of elections in an orderly fashion unblemished by any notable incident demonstrated the high commitment reposed by the people of Maldives in democratic process and in consolidation of democracy in the country, he said.

The high-level delegation of Indian Observers as well as international observers from the UN and Commonwealth have all noted that polling was fair, transparent and orderly, he added.

"It is important that all sides respect the verdict and aspirations of the people of Maldives. We hope that the second round of Presidential elections will be held as scheduled on September 28, 2013 in a similar transparent, organised and peaceful manner," the spokesperson asserted.