CMAG welcomes efforts to establish a dialogue process among key political leaders

Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG) has welcomed and encouraged efforts underway to establish a Maldivian-led dialogue process among key political leaders, which could promote high-level discussions on issues of national concern, including those identified in the Political Party Talks agenda.

CMAG stated this in the extraordinary teleconference held on 20 June 2012 to discuss the situation in Maldives.

The Group welcomed the ‘Commitment’ agreed to by the Government of Maldives and negotiated and witnessed by the Commonwealth Secretary-General’s Special Envoy, Sir Donald McKinnon, on 15 May 2012 regarding the strengthening of the Commission of National Inquiry (CoNI), established to undertake an investigation into the circumstances that led to the transfer of power on 7 February 2012, in order to enable an independent and impartial investigation to be conducted that is credible, rigorous and provides confidence to the Maldivian people. It commended the Government of Maldives and former President Nasheed on the spirit of compromise demonstrated in reaching this outcome.

The Group noted that the reformed Commission had been formally established on 17 June 2012 and was now operational. It expressed the hope that the Commission would be fully able to carry out its work in its own best judgement and urged all concerned to extend their full cooperation to the Commission.

CMAG emphasised that no action should be taken by any party or authority that would negatively affect the functioning of the Commission or the ability of individuals to provide testimony to the Commission.

It further encouraged the more effective use of the Majlis for political debate and consensus building.

CMAG stressed the need for a peaceful and stable public environment for achieving political consensus. Iturged allconcerned to act in good faith and in a responsible manner, respect the law and due process and to demonstrate restraint.

It also reaffirmed its support for the strengthening of democratic processes, institutions and culture in Maldives, and for continued Commonwealth technical assistance in this regard, particularly with regard to strengthening the capacity of the judiciary.

CMAG expressed appreciation to the Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for his ongoingefforts and support for his continued engagement.

The Group agreed to continue to monitor the situation in Maldives and to review progress at CMAG’s next regular meeting in September 2012, or earlier if required.