23 February 2012 | Thursday                 

5 killed as protests over Quran burning rage in Afghanistan
Violent protests left at least five dead and others wounded Wednesday as demonstrations over Quran burning intensified in Afghanistan. Police killed four people and wounded 10 others during protests in Parwan province, said Abdul Wassi Sayedkhili, a provincial council official. Health officials said a fifth person died and 10 others wounded in eastern Nangarhar province. President Hamid Karzai was "saddened about the civilian casualties during today's demonstrations," his office said. Karzai noted an investigation will begin Thursday over the killings.

It’s not possible to determine the constitutionality of the resignation of President Nasheed-CMAG

The Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG) met in extraordinary session in London yesterday to consider its response to the situation in Maldives. The meeting was chaired by Hon Dr Surujrattan Rambachan, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Communications of Trinidad and Tobago. Other members of the Group who participated in the meeting were Hon Dr Dipu Moni, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Bangladesh; Hon John Baird, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Canada; Senator Hon Arnold J Nicholson, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Jamaica (by teleconference); Hon Joseph B Dauda, Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation of Sierra Leone; Hon Bernard K Membe, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation of Tanzania; Mr Dennis Richardson, Secretary, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Australia; and H E Roy Mickey Joy, High Commissioner of Vanuatu to the UK.

Commonwealth Statement Proves Mr. Nasheed’s Statement are False: Dr. Jameel

Home Minister Dr. Mohamed Jameel Ahmed has denied the claims of some of the media and the former ruling party Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) that the Commonwealth suspended Maldives from its membership. Clarifying the misinterpretation of the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG) recommendations by the opposition party, Minister Dr. Jameel said that Maldives will not be participating in CMAG as long as the country is under the group’s scrutiny. Despite the false allegations of ex-President Mohamed Nasheed, Dr. Jameel said that CMAG did not state that Maldives has been suspended from the Commonwealth. He said that the group clearly mentioned that ““The CMAG Group further agreed that, in situations where a member of CMAG was under scrutiny by the Group itself, its CMAG membership should be placed in abeyance as long as it remained on the formal agenda of CMAG. It decided, accordingly, that Maldives should not participate in CMAG during this time.” Attorney General, Azima Shukoor said that the CMAG’s recommendations are very positive. She said that the group acknowledged the importance of the Roadmap initiated by President Dr. Mohamed Waheed’s government to find a peaceful solution to the current political unrest through dialogue between all parties.

MDP finally capitulates and joins all party consultative meeting

Ex-President Mohamed Nasheed's Maldives Democratic Party (MDP) has capitulated and participated in President Dr. Mohamed Waheed’s all-party consultative meeting to discuss the government’s Roadmap for a Possible Way Forward. . In the meeting chaired by Ahmed Mujuthaba, the first Human Rights Commissioner of Maldives, Secretary General of Qaumi Ittihad (President Dr.Waheed’s party) Ahmed Thaufeeq; MDP Parliamentary Group Leader Ibrahim Mohamed Solih; PA Parliamentary Group Leader Deputy Speaker of Majlis Ahmed Nazim; MP Ilham Mohamed of People's Progressive Party (PPM); Deputy Leader of Dhivehi Raiyyithunge Party (DRP) Ahmed Mohamed and Dhivehi Qaumee Party (DQP)’s Secretary General participated. Spokespersons of Jumhooree Party (JP), Maldives Reform Movement (MRM) and Adhaalath Party (AP) also joined the talks. Mujthaba excused himself from informing the media regarding the discussions held by the parties yesterday. He said that the participants decided to keep the details of the meeting confidential.

Afghans protest peacefully over Quran burnings

KABUL, Afghanistan (AP) — Afghan officials say there have been peaceful demonstrations in three eastern provinces to vent anger over the burning of Muslim holy books at a U.S. military base. Provincial officials and police said Thursday that more than 2,000 people turned out at the biggest demonstration in the capital of eastern Laghman province. About 500 people protested in the Khoshi district of Logar province and the rally ended without incident. Hundreds also protested in the eastern city of Jalalabad. On Wednesday, clashes between Afghan troops and protesters broke out, leaving at least seven people dead and dozens wounded.

President Welcomes CMAG’s Recommendations

President Dr. Mohamed Waheed has responded to the findings of the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG). “I want to thank the CMAG for their recommendations. When the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group visited the Maldives we gave them unprecedented cooperation and I am pleased that those with an outside perspective recognise the challenges we face as a nation and the honest attempts of the National Unity Government to deal with them,” he said.

Quran burning by U.S. soldiers incites deadly riots in Afghanistan

KABUL, Afghanistan (AP) — Clashes between Afghan troops and protesters angry over the burning of Muslim holy books at a U.S. military base left at least seven people dead and dozens wounded Wednesday as anger spread despite U.S. apologies over what it said was a mistake. The demonstrations across four eastern provinces illustrated the intensity of Afghans' anger at what they saw as foreign forces flouting their laws and insulting their culture.The violence was also a reminder of how easily Afghan-U.S. relations can deteriorate as the two countries work to forge a long-term partnership ahead of the withdrawal of foreign forces in 2014. The unrest started Tuesday when Afghan workers at the main American military base, Bagram Air Field, saw soldiers dumping books in a pit where garbage is burned and noticed Qurans and other religious material among the trash.

Minister Dr. Asim meets management of Arabiyya
Minister of education Dr.Asim Ahmed met senior management, school board and parents of Al-Madarasathul Arabiyathul-Islaamiyya on Feb 20, 2012. Minister of Islamic Affairs and Attorney General of Maldives also attended the meeting and discussed about issues. The purpose of the meeting was to take the necessary actions in improving Arabic Education in the Maldives. In this meeting it has been decided under government administration to find an immediate solution for the difficulties that the students face at Arabiyya School.

Dr. Hassan Saeed meets Commonwealth Secretary General

Special Advisor to the President Dr Hassan Saeed presented a letter from President Dr Mohamed Waheed, to Secretary General of the Commonwealth of Nations Kamalesh Sharma. At a constructive meeting held yesterday, the Special Advisor updated Secretary General Sharma on the present situation in the country, and welcomed the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG)’s support and assistance in investigating and solving the political issues.

Special Advisor to the President meets UK Parliamentary Under Secretary of State
Special Advisor to the President Dr Hassan Saeed has yesterday met with the UK Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, Alistair Burt. At the meeting held at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in London, Under Secretary of State Burt recognized the work being done in the Maldives to resolve its internal issues, encouraging the government of Maldives to continue dialogues with all parties. Mr Burt also welcomed the establishment of the National Enquiry Commission, decreed by President Dr Mohamed Waheed yesterday. Further, the Under Secretary of State reassured Dr Saeed of the UK government’s non-partisan approach to the current political situation in the Maldives, and stated their only interest was to establish facts regarding the recent transfer of power, and to ensure a stable Maldives.

VP Designate meets Sri Lankan President

Vice President Designate Mohamed Waheeduddeen has yesterday met with President Mahinda Rajapaksa of Sri Lanka. Visiting Sri Lanka as a Special Envoy of President Dr Mohamed Waheed, Mr Waheeduddeen presented a letter to the Sri Lankan President, on his behalf. At the meeting, Mr Waheeduddeen noted the close relations established between the two countries, and discussed hopes for further enhancing the ties both the countries share. Further, Mr Waheeduddeen expressed his gratitude to the Sri Lankan government for the aid and support being provided to the Maldives. The Sri Lankan President congratulated Mohamed Waheeduddeen on being the Vice President Designate, and spoke of his confidence on the diplomatic relations between the two countries continuing to thrive in the future.

                 22 February 2012 | Wednesday                 

No threats to tourists in Maldives- Gasim

Villa Group Chairman Gasim Ibrahim has said that there is no threat to tourists in Maldives and that the country is perfectly safe for foreigners to enjoy their holidays. Explaining the current situation to the Chinese television media, Gasim said that the political turbulence in capital Male’ and some other populated islands will have no effect in the tourist resorts since Maldives is an archipelago of islands separated by sea. He assured that the country continues to be a safe haven for tourists.

MDP calls for early polls fearing that they might lose their support- MP Nasheed

Member of Parliament for Kulhudhuffushi North constituency, Mohamed Nasheed has said that MDP is calling for early elections because they fear that they might lose their support if the new government exposes ex-President Mohamed Nasheed’s abuse of executive powers, obstruction of justice, contempt and lockdown of the Legislature and Judiciary, corruption, graft and nepotism.

President calls on all of MNDF for a united effort to strength its forces

In his first address to the Maldivian Defence Forces, as the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Dr Mohamed Waheed has called on MNDF personnel of all ranks to work together to strengthen their forces. The President, in his speech, reminded the MNDF that they had resting on their shoulders a number of very important national responsibilities, and that they included maintaining the sovereignty, security and harmony of the country, as well as, the protection of the safety and welfare of members of the public.

Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa achieves Silver EarthCheck Certification
(incentivetravel.co.uk): Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa, which opened in the pristine and undisturbed Gaafu Alifu Atoll in April 2011, is delighted to achieve Silver EarthCheck Certification – making it one of the few resorts worldwide to gain such recognition.

The government will sustain the Agreement with GMR- Ahmed Mohamed

Minister of economic development Mr. Ahmed Mohamed said that the government will sustain the agreement they had with the Indian Company GMR in order to develop the Ibrahim Nasir International Airport. During the press conference held last night at the Presidents office, answering a question asked by a news reporter Ahmed Mohamed said that if the foreign investment policy is changed every five years or it changes whenever the government changes, the foreign inverstors will get afraid to invest in Maldives.

                 21 February 2012 | Tuesday                 

President calls on all of MNDF for a united effort to strength its forces

In his first address to the Maldivian Defence Forces, as the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Dr Mohamed Waheed has called on MNDF personnel of all ranks to work together to strengthen their forces. The President, in his speech, reminded the MNDF that they had resting on their shoulders a number of very important national responsibilities, and that they included maintaining the sovereignty, security and harmony of the country, as well as, the protection of the safety and welfare of members of the public. Praising the military’s commitment, the President highlighted their many sacrifices over the past years. He said that the MNDF were the frontline of national service and said they deserved credit for their professionalism, capabilities and perseverance.

President Waheed meets Auditor General and ACC President

President Dr Mohamed Waheed today met with the Auditor General Niyaz Ibrahim and the President of the Anti-Corruption Commission Hassan Luthfi. The meeting was held this morning at the President’s Office. Speaking at the meeting, the President assured that the government would give its full cooperation to the two intuitions and also that the government would not interfere in their work. The Auditor General and the President of the ACC briefed the President on the difficulties that their respective institutions face in carrying out their duties.

Developments in the Maldives and India’s Options
The sudden resignation of President Nasheed in Maldives on February 7 took many by surprise. The media in India reported it as a coup, a military takeover, the President was forced out, etc. Nasheed's description of the change as a coup gave it a particular flavour. India is allergic to coups in its neighbourhood. It has had to get used to them in Pakistan and is wary of them in Bangladesh. This reflex is rooted in its deep seated commitment to democracy with a supreme civilian authority. Coups also imply surprises and India does not particularly care for them. In the instant case the association of the word coup with Maldives set off a reflex and a chain reaction set in thereafter. India remembered the coup attempted in Maldives in 1988 when it had to rush its forces there to restore the government’s authority. An implied threat to its own security from an unstable situation in Maldives caused the Government to take the line of least resistance i.e., accept the newly sworn in President, Dr. Waheed and assure him support and treat the matter as an internal issue of Maldives, to be sorted out by them. Overall, the message that went out of New Delhi was that while it cannot be unconcerned about happenings in that country, it is prepared to work with whoever is legitimately in power there. However, the issue of legitimacy has now come to the fore and many feel that this needs to be looked at closely. Also, by being the first country to accept the developments there as an internal matter, India set an example for others to follow [witness the US position].

Roadmap meeting called off as MDP fails to attend

The first ‘Roadmap’ meeting was called off Monday evening as the former ruling party Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) failed to attend the meeting. Although MDP did not turn up for the meeting, eight political parties attended the meeting at 20:30 hrs last evening at Nasandhura Palace Hotel. Hinnavaru MP Ibrahim Mohamed Salih was expected to attend the meeting as the representative of MDP. Protestors of MDP at the Tsunami monument area said that the party did not attend the Roadmap meeting because the government did not yield to the demands of MDP.

More work to be done to establish a society that respects human rights: President
President Dr. Mohamed Waheed Hasan Manik has said that more work is to be done to establish a society that values and respects human rights. The President made this remark in his meeting with the members of the Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM). In the meeting which was held in the President’s Office yesterday, the President said that he will give his full cooperation to the commission in their mission to lead the promotion and protection of Human Rights under the Maldives Constitution. President Dr. Waheed underscored the importance of strengthening the role of HRCM and other institutions. He said protecting the human rights of each and every individual was the main objective of all the policies of the current government. Speaking in this regard, the President also underscored ensuring people’s rights involved incorporating and mainstreaming human rights thinking in all levels of the government in policy making and implementation, and state institutions. He added that the government and other institutions should also ensure equitable distribution of benefits their programmes and plans among all citizens.

DRP will not support early polls without amending the constitution: Thasmeen

Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP) leader Ahmed Thasmeen Ali has said his party will not support an election ahead of 2013 without amending the constitution. DRP leader Thasmeen made this remark speaking on the popular DHItv program ‘Inside News’ last evening. Thasmen said that it is unacceptable to conduct an election that will instate a government for only one and a half years. He said his party will never support it. “Our party will only support an election that empowers a government for 5 years (full term). That can be achieved only by an election that follows a constitutional amendment,” he said. Furthermore Thasmeen said that the Country is not prepared economically and socially for the expenditure of an election that will bring in a government for just one and a half years.

CAPS condemns the involvement of children in MDP protests

In a press release today the Child Abuse Prevention Society (CAPS) said the the continuing ‘occupy protest’ by Nasheed’s MDP is having a remarkable negative impact of the lives of children around the area (protest grounds). Their statement also said MDP has extensively involved children in the movement through activities such as the children’s evening on Saturday. CAPS further said that though they (MDP) calls the protest as a peaceful movement but the mayhem it creates impacts lives of children, students and other citizen in the area. In their statement CAPS raised concern over the silence of the Human Rights Commission of Maldives (HRCM) and other authorities while most of what is happening is unconstitutional and having strong adverse impact on lives of the people.

Mustafa stripped of his seat in the Majlis

Supreme Court has ruled against MDP parliament member Mohamed Musthafa invalidating his representation of the Thimarafushi Constituency in the Peoples’ Majlis. Musthafa was found guilty of concealing an earlier ruling of debt repayment obligations during his election process. Musthafa lost his seat by a 4 against 3 ruling of the Supreme Court bench. The case filed against Musthafa by Umar Naseer, the Vice President of Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM). Meanwhile, Mustafa was reported to have said the night before in the MDP’s ongoing protest that the Supreme Court cannot do anything against him. He said that MDP is his ideology and MDP’s manifesto is the book he follows.

Strategies to counter campaigns to damage the tourism industry launched- Minister
Tourism Minister Ahmed Adheeb has said that his ministry has launched strategies to counter the local and international campaigns to damage the tourism industry of Maldives. “I will stand up strongly against these negative campaigns. I will succeed. I will create confidence in the tourism industry and foreign investors towards Maldives,” Minister Adheeb said. He said that there is absolutely no danger to tourists who visit the Country, as their destinations are far removed geographically from Male’ and from each other too. However, he said that there has been a lot of negative campaigning in the Chinese and European media and he is already talking to these Medias to correct these opinions.

                 20 February 2012 | Monday                 

President meets National Football team

President Dr Mohamed Waheed has today met with the Maldivian national football squad taking part in the AFC Challenge Cup 2012. The AFC Challenge Cup is an international football competition for emerging nations that are members of the Asian Football Confederation. The 2012 AFC Challenge Cup will take place in Nepal from 8-19 March. Speaking to the players and team officials, President Waheed said that the government plans to reinstate the allowance to team players. Noting the enthusiastic support of all Maldivians for football and the national team, President Waheed encouraged the team to excel in the sport make all Maldivians proud.

Economy of the country shrunk in the past three years as never before: Ahmed Mohamed

Economic Minister Ahmed Mohamed has revealed that the economy of Maldives has shrunk in the past three years as never before. Minister Ahmed Mohamed said that the external debt of the country when ex-President Mohamed Nasheed took office on 2008 was 4.3 billion Ruffiya. However, he said that on 2011 the debt has increased by three times in the year 2011 and now the debt is 12.8 billion Ruffiya. The Minister also said that the domestic debt of the country when Nasheed took office was 9.8 billion Ruffiya but it reached to 23.2 billion Ruffiya by 6th February 2012. He said that these debts are excluding the sovereign guarantees.  “This shows that the debt has increased by three times over the past three years. This is a heavy burden upon the country. This increase is not acceptable,” he said. Minister Ahmed Mohamed said that the debt service ratio has gone up in the past three years which is detrimental to the country’s economy because of the lack of adequate economical policies and large expenditure of Nasheed’s regime and also because of the nepotism, cronyism and corruption during his rule.

Maumoon Gayoom’s daughter in new Maldives cabinet
NEW DELHI: With new Maldivian president Mohamed Waheed on Sunday expanding his cabinet to include the daughter of former president Maumoon Gayoom, the real hand behind the recent political turmoil in Maldives is becoming clearer. He appointed Dhunya Maumoon as the minister of state for foreign affairs. The post of foreign minister still remains vacant. Meanwhile, former president Nasheed has continued to hold protests against the Waheed government and is pushing for an early announcement of elections. After foreign secretary Ranjan Mathai visited Male last week, he had apparently given an undertaking that he would "reconsider" holding the protests. But he has continued to do them anyway.

With Nasheed’s resignation, VP taking oath of office as President does not contradict the law: PG
Prosecutor General Ahmed Muizz has said that when an incumbent President resigns from his office in accordance with constitutional procedures, the act of the serving Vice President taking oath of Office as President does not contradict the law. PG Muizz’s statement indicated that, since there was a letter written by ex-President Nasheed by hand addressed to the Speaker tendering his resignation from his post as President of Maldives, and since the said letter was received by the Speaker, this completes the requirements of Article 121 (a) of the Constitution for the resignation of a President.

23 Dec coalition to hold a mass symposium on Feb 24

23 December coalition has announced that they will be holding a mass symposium next Friday on 24th February. In a press conference held yesterday, President of the Adhaalath Party Sheikh Imran Abdullah said that the location of the symposium has not been finalized because a continous protest of the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) is still underway at the ‘Victory Square’ (Tsunami Monument Area). However he said that the symposium will be held from afternoon 4:00 to 6:00. He said that 24 February is the anniversary of the Day the Maldives Embraced Islam. He said that the reason to hold such a symposium is to show to the world that the people of Maldivians will always defend their religion and nationality. He said that the world will see the solidarity of the people with the new national unity government to protect and preserve the Islamic unity of Maldives. In the press conference, DRP Deputy Leader Ibrahim “Mavota” Shareef noted that although the anti-Islamic despotic administration of Mohamed Nasheed has been defeated, still anti-Islamic entities in the country are busy with their work to eradicate the Islamic faith from the Maldivian nation. Deputy President of the coalition Abdullah Mohamed informed the media that the 23 December coalition will always work together to uphold Islam and the constitution. He said that no one will be given the opportunity to work outside the constitution.

Mega Maldives embarks on expansion
MEGA Maldives is planning to hike frequencies to Beijing and Shanghai, and will be adding three more aircraft to its fleet this year. The charter airline launched operations last January using a single Boeing 767-300ER plane with 252 seats, and took delivery last month of its second 767-300ER, which is configured with 24 business-class and 233 economy-class seats. “We have the capacity to add two more aircraft this year, in addition to the two we already have,” Mega Maldives CEO George Weinmann told TTG Asia e-Daily during a recent interview in Male. Mega Maldives also serves Hong Kong, Seoul (Incheon) and Chongqing, operating six to eight flights

CMAG ministerial mission’s observations and reservations to be presented to CMAG
The three person Commonwealth ministerial mission to Maldives has stated that their observations and recommendations will be presented to the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG), which will meet in London in the coming week. In their departure statement, the CMAG ministerial mission said that they have been in Maldives for the past three days, with the objective of developing a better understanding of the circumstances surrounding the transfer of power in this country earlier this month, as well as to promote adherence to Commonwealth values and principles.

DRP supports the govt roadmap
Dhivehi Rayyethuge Party (DRP) has announced that the party fully supports the Roadmap for a Possible Way Forward initiated by President Dr. Mohamed Waheed Hassan and announced by the Attorney General on 16 February 2012. DRP said that they welcome and support this important initiative valuing the importance of strengthening the democratic foundations of the Maldives and the restoration of peace and calm amongst our people. “We believe this initiate would help to further strengthen the role of independent institutions in the Maldives and prevent serious distruptions to economic development and prosperity of our people,” DRP said in their statement. In supporting this initiative DRP said that the party is willing to participate in a dialogue among all relevant political parties regarding the holding of early elections as stipulated in the Roadmap. DRP also said that they would also extend its cooperation in carrying out any necessary amendments to the constitution in order to facilitate such an election.

Dusit expects high returns from its investment in Maldives
Dusit International is on schedule to open the Dusit Thani Maldives in May, after a two-month delay. The US$80 million (Bt2.5 billion), 100-villa resort melds Thai and Maldivian architecture and services. It is wholly owned by the company and is its second foreign property after the Philippines. Dusit, one of the Thailand's largest hotel chains, has drawn up a business plan that focuses on pursuing more opportunities outside the country. The strategy is expected to boost revenue, diversify risk, build a global brand and increase awareness of the brand in the international market. CEO Chanin Donavanik told The Nation that Dusit is moving slower to Maldives than other Thai hotel operators such as Minor and Central. The company spent three years looking for the right location and acquired a hotel on Mudhdhoo Island on Baa Atoll, near the country's first Unesco World Biosphere Reserve.

                 19 February 2012 | Sunday                 

President appoints Minister of Islamic Affairs and Minister of Housing and Environment

President Dr Mohamed Waheed has today appointed Sheikh Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed as the Minister of Islamic Affairs and Dr Mohamed Muiz as the Minister of Housing and Environment. The appointment ceremony was held this morning at the President’s Office. The two ministers took their oath of Office before the Supreme Court Judge Court Judge Abdulla Areef. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has served as as State Minister of Ministry of Islamic affairs for 2 years in the government of Mohamed nasheed. He is highly well recognized in the community for his services to the community. People love his hear his Khuthuba and recitation Quran a lot.

President appoints Minister of State for Foreign Affairs
President Dr Mohamed Waheed has today appointed daughter of Former President Dictator Gayoom’s daughter Ms Dhunya Maumoon as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs. The President presented the Letter of Appointment at a ceremony held today at the President’s Office.

Maldivian judiciary is the biggest obstacle in granting loans: SBI

An official of the Male’ branch of the State Bank of India has alleged that the judiciary of the Maldives has been their biggest obstacle in granting loans. The official made this remark replying to a question posed by Miadhu Daily in reference to a news report on Economic Times stating that “SBI decided not to extend any fresh loans or make new investments in the Maldives until the political situation improves there.” SBI Official stated that the loan grants will be “slowed down” if the political turbulence in the country continues. He added that the issue is more about the state of the judiciary in Maldives. “We have no problem with anyone in authority. A Bank is a business institution. There is no political affiliation. However, it should be noted that we have many many cases that we have raised in the courts still pending. And because of this procrastination by the courts, we are facing many losses. Our money is the money of our people. If we are not able to dispatch the people their money, then we are violating their rights,” he said. The official informed that the bank has raised the issue with President’s Office, the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) and even the Ministry of Tourism after finding no solution by holding discussions with the judiciary. Economic Times yesterday reported an official of the bank stating that "We will not take any fresh exposure till June this year.”

Maldivians will always have the support of India: Mulay

The Indian High Commissioner Mr. Dnyaneshwar Mulay has stated that India will always support the people of Maldives. Mr. Mulay, who has been tirelessly working even in an individual level to strengthen the ties between India and Maldives said that the relationship between the two countries will be strengthened directly proportional to the strengthening of the ties between the citizenry of India and Maldives. The Indian High Commissioner noted that India is concerned with the current political situation in Maldives and will continue to assist the country to peacefully resolve the issue. He said that the political leaders of Maldives are capable of finding a peaceful solution by dialogue and discussions. Meanwhile, the foreign secretary of India, Mr. Ranjan Mathai who recently visited Maldives said that there is need for a Maldivian government led process for reconciliation and resolving political differences through constitutional means. He said that early election should be held as early as considered feasible by all parties. Mr. Ranjan said that government of national unity agreed that they will work towards the conditions that will permit such elections to take place including necessary constitutional amendments. “There was a degree of convergence on how matters should be taken forward. The parties also agree to the need for maintenance of constitutional order. The president has come out with a roadmap for an inclusive political process which provides a very good basis for the parties to resolve their differences,” he noted.

Early polls can be held only after amending the constitution: Nasheed MP

Kulhudhufushi MP Mohamed Nasheed has said that early presidential elections can only held after amending the constitution. In an interview to DhiTV, the famous lawyer said that the constitution is very clear about the five-year term of presidency. He said that there is no provision for an early election in the constitution, in the face of a legitimate President in office. Nasheed also noted that even early election is held after amending the constitution, another election should be held on 2013 and the newly elected President should take his oath of office on November 11 as stipulated in the constitution. Former legal Minister Nasheed also said that the article 125 (c) of the constitution states that term of a President and a Vice President elected in a mid-term election held for whatever plausible reason can stay in office up until the end of the remaining years left in the term of the earlier administration.

Boycotting any tourist resort will damage the whole tourism industry: Minister
Minister of Tourism, Ahmed Adheeb has said that the calls to boycott resorts even if is about boycotting one resort will have result in damaging the whole tourism industry of Maldives. The Minister said this in view of the recent calls of boycotting the tourist resorts of Villa and Bandos Island resort by the David Hardingham, former Honorary Consul of the Maldives at Salisbury, the UK and ex-President Mohamed Nasheed’s friend. Hardingham claimed that the owners of these resorts are behind the alleged human rights violations in the country. Minister Adheeb said that there are no human rights violations currently in the country and that the political turbulence has now turned into peaceful activities. He said that it is ironic that a group calling themselves “Friends of Maldives” is leading a campaign to damage the image of the country and to damage the tourism industry. “This is a very serious issue. We are now trying to minimize the damage by contacting the tour operators. We are now discussing on taking proper legal action against those involved in this dangerous campaign,” he said. “In the past three years we have seen a decrease in the European market. As the Honorary Consul Maldives in the UK, Mr. Hardingham did nothing to increase the market. Now he is trying to damage the tourism industry of Maldives and also the economy of the country,” he said. Meanwhile, a Maldivian in UK noted in her blog that Hardingham did the same during Former President Maumoon’s time in 2006/2007 and extracted hundreds of thousands of dollars out of resort owners to get off this black-list he creates to manipulate politician, while directly attacking and sucking the life out of the poorest Maldivians among us.

President Convenes All-Party Consultative Meeting to Discuss the Roadmap
President Dr Mohamed Waheed met with leaders of political parties yesterday to carry forward the consultations and consensus building process he had initiated to bring about his Vision of a Democratic Maldives, based on the draft document titled Roadmap for a Possible Way Forward. Invitation was again extended to the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) to participate in this all-party Consultative Meeting. The MDP regretfully opted not to attend. At this meeting which was held at the President’s Office, discussions focused primarily on achieving the aims and objectives outlined in the Draft Roadmap. All the political parties agreed to the appointment of former Minister of Tourism, Ahmed Mujthaba as Convener, to moderate the discussions. The parties reiterated their hope that the MDP would engage in future consultative and consensus building dialogues aimed at achieving the loadable objectives of the visionary Roadmap. In the meantime, the President would communicate with President of MDP, Dr Ibrahim Didi as to whether his party agrees to Ahmed Mujthaba’s appointment as the Convener.

President meets members of Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group
President Dr Mohamed Waheed has yesterday met with the members of the visiting Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group. The meeting was held this morning at the President’s Office. Discussions at the meeting focused on the measures being taken to resolve the current political situation. The members of the delegation informed that the purpose of their visit was to gather facts on facts surrounding the transfer of power that took place in the Maldives recently. The President assured that the government would give the Commonwealth delegation, its full support and cooperation in carrying out their mission. He also said that the government was fully committed to resolve the issues, within the bounds of the Constitution and laws. Informing the delegation on the compilation of a roadmap on a way forward, President Waheed reiterated the need for full cooperation of all political parties, especially that of Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP). Further, the President said that his decision to include MDP’s representation in composing his cabinet has been informed to the party, and that their participation was very important.

Delhi has special place, should not worry about Beijing'
Stressing that India enjoys a "special relationship" with Maldives, new President Mohammed Waheed Hassan has said that New Delhi does not have to worry over any growing Chinese influence in his country.

US 'in lockstep with India' on Maldives
Noting that India has "traditionally played a strong role" in Maldives, the US has said it was working closely with India in resolving the political impasse there after the abrupt exit of its first democratically president last week. "We've been closely coordinating with India. India has traditionally played a strong role," State Department spokesperson Victoria Nuland told reporters Friday. "Our understanding is that we are pretty well in lockstep with India in terms of calling for unity and calling for a democratic, peaceful path forward."

                 18 February 2012 | Saturday                 

The Maldivian People need all Politicians to put the Interests of our Country First

President Waheed speaking in Male’ today said:
'The adoption of the 'Roadmap- a Possible Way Forward' by all political parties yesterday has given us the opportunity to nurture national consensus and continue to build a Maldives for all its people. We know that the success or failure of the Roadmap will depend on all politicians putting aside partisan differences and putting the Nation first. This will require self discipline and compromise. It can't be 'business as usual' for politics in the Maldives-we need to move forward. That is why I was disappointed with two actions of Mr Nasheed today: His decision to go ahead with his demonstration in Male’ today despite assurances and promises that were given to the Indian Foreign Secretary H.E. Mr. Mathai yesterday that it would be cancelled and a smaller meeting will be held in its place. The press release by the MDP of a completely untrue and irresponsible suggestion that I have "not respect(ed) the agreements reached in the negotiations held between the political parties in the past week mediated by H.E. Mr. Mathai" I can understand whilst it is easy to march your forces to the top of the hill, it is much harder to march them down again. I also understand that at this critical juncture in our country's history that showing strong leadership can be challenge. But I’m hopeful that Mr Nasheed can show the good judgement in the future that will be necessary to make the Road Map a reality. It's the very least that the people of the Maldives deserve.”

                 17 February 2012 | Friday                 

President Waheed welcomes ‘Victory for the People of the Maldives’

President Waheed this evening (Thursday 16th February) welcomed the agreement of all Political Parties to the blueprint that restores calm to our islands and sets out the next steps for our nation-“Roadmap for a Possible Way Forward”. President Waheed said: “The agreement we have reached today is a victory for the people of the Maldives-“The Way Forward” will help us to restore stability to the country and with good will and self discipline on all sides will allow us to move forward as a united nation. I wish to personally thank the Indian Foreign Secretary for his good offices in facilitating this agreement which has needed all sides to put aside partisan interest for the sake of the country”. The President continued:  “I have an unswerving commitment to the principles of our constitution and a clear vision of how our country can move forward. I am by nature a man who prefers to lead by consensus. This is an opportunity for us to regain the respect of the international community but most importantly continue to build a safe, democratic and prosperous Maldives for all our people.”

Elections would be held as early as considered feasible by all concerned: India

The new president in the Maldives has softened his stance and agreed to hold early elections to break a political impasse after his predecessor resigned, an Indian diplomat said Thursday. India's Foreign Secretary Ranjan Mathai told reporters that President Mohammed Waheed Hassan agreed during talks with him to work on holding an election "as early as considered feasible by all concerned."

Leaked audio: “I am resigning Sincerely: ex-President Nasheed

An audio of ex-President Mohamed Nasheed which indicates that he resigned not under duress but on his own has surfaced. In the leaked audio of Nasheed which was aired on VTV last evening, he addressed the military very calmly and says to them that he is resigning sincerely. No sign of force can be heard on the audio. In the leaked audio the ex-President also requests the military to give protection to his family. He also urges them not to arrest anyone and not to cause any unrest. He also asks them to maintain peace and stability of the nation. Nasheed is also heard to tell them that he wants to go to the President’s Office and to resign officially as is stipulated in the constitution. He also tells the military that he would hand over the power to the Vice President and that he will inform the international community regarding this. Ex-President also indicates that the result will not be as anticipated by him if a vote is taken. The audio shows that he did not resign at gunpoint.

President gives an interview to BBC Radio 4

President Dr Waheed of the Maldives spoke on the TODAY programme of BBC Radio, which is the morning programme heard by millions in the UK and other parts of the world. The interview clarifies the recent events in the country which made the previous President, Mohammed Nasheed, realize that he had lost the confidence of the people as well as that of his own administration, in particular the critical law and order enforcement arms. On his own accord, he submitted his resignation, although he later claimed he had been ousted in a violent 'coup'.

Dhiraagu introduces a super low international calling rate promotion
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India Brokers Deal, Maldives Parties Agree for Early Polls
In a triumph of diplomacy, India Thursday succeeded in brokering a political deal in the Maldives, with all political parties agreeing to hold elections "as early as possible", paving the way for a political reconciliation in the island nation that plunged into turmoil after Mohamed Nasheed resigned as president Feb 7. The breakthrough came after Foreign Secretary Ranjan Mathai, the second senior Indian diplomat to visit the Maldives after the dramatic transfer of power, held talks with key political figures, including ousted president Mohamed Nasheed and his successor Mohamed Waheed Hassan. Mathai also met Abdulla Yameen of the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM), Thasmeen Ali of the Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP), Chief Justice of the Maldivian Supreme Court and the Speaker of the People's Majlis. After wide-ranging discussions, the feuding Maldivian parties agreed on a formulation that holds out the hope for an early return of peace and stability to the strategically located island nation.

Maldivian regime comes out with a roadmap to end crisis
“In Maldives a system is needed to show the Roadmap to people who are blind.”  Male: With India mediating to end the crisis, the new Maldivian regime on Thursday came out with a roadmap that could lead to early elections which the ousted president Mohammad Nasheed's party MDP is also in favour of. On its part, MDP appears to be shedding its hardline by reconsidering its decision to hold a rally tomorrow which many feared could trigger violence and could lead to arrest of former president. Winding up his hectic visit with a round of meetings with President Mohammed Waheed Hassan, Nasheed and all other stakeholders, Foreign Secretary Ranjan Mathai announced that consequent to his discussions all the parties have agreed on a formulation to get the country out of the more than week old crisis.

FM visiting Maldives Friday
Dhaka, Feb 16 (bdnews24.com)—Foreign minister Dipu Moni will visit the Maldives on Friday as part of a three-strong Commonwealth team to consider the possible response to the recent political developments in the Indian Ocean nation. Mohamed Nasheed stepped down from the presidency of the Maldives on Feb 7 amid protests and was replaced by his vice-president Mohamed Waheed Hassan Manik. Moni, accompanied with two other ministers of Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG), will go to Male on a three-day tour, the foreign ministry said in a media statement on Thursday. The decision to send the ministerial mission was taken on Feb 12 of the CMAG members to identify the areas where the grouping can assist the country in promoting its values. CMAG, a nine-member group of Commonwealth foreign ministers, was established in 1995 to deal with serious or persistent violation of the political values. Bangladesh was re-elected for the second two-year term as a member of CMAG in 2011.

Organic foods may be an unsuspected source of dietary arsenic
As people seek healthier dietary regimens they often turn to things labeled "organic." Lurking in the background, however, is an ingredient that may be a hidden source of arsenic-an element known to be both toxic and potentially carcinogenic. Organic brown rice syrup has become a preferred alternative to using high fructose corn syrup as a sweetener in food. High fructose corn syrup has been criticized as a highly processed substance that is more harmful than sugar and is a substantial contributor to epidemic obesity. Unfortunately, organic brown rice syrup is not without its faults.2012.February\17\20120126.htm

AgriLife research study shows temperatures may change disease resistance in wheat
Wheat streak mosaic resistance bred into several wheat varieties might be negated by the producer practice in the High Plains of planting wheat early and using it for both winter forage for cattle and grain, according to a Texas AgriLife Research scientist. Dr. Charlie Rush, AgriLife Research plant pathologist in Amarillo, began a study in December that he "started out of necessity" after working for several years on the wheat streak mosaic virus.

                 16 February 2012 | Thursday                 

                 13 February 2012 | Monday                 

Sheraton Maldives & W Maldives Participates In ‘City Weekend-Resort Weekday’ Promotion by Starwood Hotels & Resorts Asia Pacific
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Asia Pacific provides travellers an added reason to take a city weekend break or a resort weekday escape with the launch of the ‘City Weekend-Resort Weekday’ promotion. Getting your deserved break just got easier at more than 160 participating hotels and resorts across Asia Pacific offering “20% Off Standard Rates with breakfast for 2”. The promotion runs throughout the month until 28 February 2012 and bookings are applicable for stays up to 31 December 2012. Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa. Welcoming and luxurious, the Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa is ideal for couples and families. Relax and unwind on the private spa island or take to the water in the crystal clear lagoon. Rates start from US$624++ only in Ocean Villa category.

China hopes for stable, healthy ties with the Maldives
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Liu Weimin saidMonday that China hopes to work closely with the Maldives government to develop thetwo countries' ties in a stable, healthy and smooth way under the Five Principles ofPeaceful Coexistence. In response to a media request on China's view on the Maldives' turbulent domesticsituation and change in leadership, Liu said that as a close neighbor of the Maldives,China respects the choice of the people of the Maldives and hopes the Maldives canrealize national stability, social harmony and economic development.

No coup in Maldives, says India

The transfer of power in the Maldives was not a coup, India believes even as New Delhi sent a special envoy to the troubledIndian Ocean nation to assess the situation and help work out a way forward. Prime MinisterManmohan Singh said it was his sincere hope that the matter can be resolved through peaceful dialogue. "It will be our effort to use our influence in that direction," he said.

Maldives new regime to come out with policy roadmap
Maldives new regime is likley to come out with a roadmap detailing the steps to be taken and policies that will be followed by President Mohamed Waheed Hassan led government trying to strengthen its position in the crisis-hit nation. "We will issue our roadmap today giving an overview of how the government will function, what policies would be followed," said a senior Presidential Office source. The roadmap comes a day after Hassan sweared in his new and expanded cabinet as he tries to cement his position as the head of a 'unity government'. Seeking to end a raging political crisis that erupted after the resignation of first democratically elected president Mohamed Nasheed last week, his former deputy had sweared in new members of his cabinet from different political parties. Incidentally, Waheed also left key portfolios like Foreign Affairs and Finance vacant among two others and has claimed that he wants to bring Nasheed's Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) on board.

Maldivian Democratic Party supporters plan militant style insurgency
The Vice President at the time, Dr.Waheed who is known for his dedicated work to the United Nations also called on President Nasheed to free the Criminal Court Judge and to respect the constitutional rights of the people in Maldives. This led to Nasheed's Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) supporters issuing warnings and threats to the Vice President against further comments on the political situation. The Vice President being from a different political party, kept to his position that the Government, nor the Army has the right to violate the constitution of the country in any difficulty it faces.

President Waheed acts quickly and decisively to protect and strengthen Maldives democracy

President Waheed yesterday announced the members of the new Cabinet of the National Unity Government. They took the oath of office in a ceremony presided over by Justice Arif of the Supreme Court. President Waheed said:“A key responsibility of any government in a democracy is to promote the economic and social well being of its people. It’s my belief that at this challenging time for our nation that this is best achieved by establishing a cabinet and government that represents all shades of opinion. I want to make it absolutely clear that there is room around my cabinet table and all levels of government for representatives of every political party in the Maldives. In particular I would urge our colleagues in the MDP to put aside partisan differences and to take up my offer of significant representation in the government.”

Can President Waheed field an independent investigation acceptable to MDP?
Last night, ex-President Nasheed again called upon his party, the Maldivian Democratic Party, to assist him to immediately remove President Mohamed Waheed and reinstate him. The MDP cannot sit around with folded arms, but must take action to remove President Waheed from office, Nasheed told party members gathered at a rally in Male’ last night. These statements come in the midst of international reports which say that Nasheed has agreed with foreign envoys such as US Special Envoy Robert Blake to join a unity government and work for reform leading to an election in 2013. However, neither Nasheed nor MDP have confirmed such a commitment.

Embassy of the People’s Republic of China, Male’, Republic of Maldives
MEDIA RELEASE

                 12 February 2012 | Sunday                 

Let the Maldives decide if it is coup or not – US Envoy Blake
US Envoy rules out snap election in the Maldives
The visiting United States Assistant Secretary of State Robert Blake has ruled out snap elections in the Maldives to defuse the political crisis prompted by the resignation of President Mohamed Nasheed and taking over of the presidency by his Vice President Mohamed Waheed Hassan Maniku on Tuesday. The new President Mohamed Waheed has also ruled out such an election before his term ends in November 2013.

Previous govt’s projects that are beneficial to the people will continue- President Waheed

Speaking at a press conference held yesterday at the President’s Office, President. Dr Mohamed Waheed Hassan has said that the previous government’s projects and programmes that are beneficial to the people would continue. The President further announced that his administration would give a high priority to reinstate the civil service salary and implement court rulings on employment disputes over the years. President Waheed also urged all political parties and leaders to put forward national interest before politics. He said: “The way of responsible leaders is not cause strife among the people. The way of responsible leaders should be to resolve disputes peacefully through dialogue”. He also announced an investigation into the events that took place in the country from 14 January to 8 February 2012. The President called for chaos on the streets to stop and to restore peace and calm. He added that as the country’s economy depends on tourism, it is important that the country maintains its good image as a peaceful country. He further re-assured that life and property of all citizens will be protected. The President also took questions from the media.

Sri Lanka will not support any interference on the Maldives
Sri Lankan Government has said it will not support any international interference or pressure on the Maldives crisis. Acting Foreign Minister Neomal Perera told media that the Maldives needs to solve its issues internally and according the country's constitution. Perera observed that Sri Lankla would support any solution formulated by the Maldivian people. President Mohamed Nasheed resigned after weeks of demonstrations by the opposition which was finally supported by the police and military. On Tuesday President Nasheed said before the nation he was resigning for the stability and good of the people. But he said later he was forced out in a coup. Sri Lanka said it will not interfere with the current internal crisis. Sri Lanka Government has however said it will provide protection to former President Nasheed and his family as long as they are on Sri Lankan soil. Nasheed's wife Laila flew to Colombo on Wednesday and she was given immediate security.

President meets UN Assistant Secretary General

President Dr Mohamed Waheed has yesterday morning met with Assistant Secretary General at United Nations, Oscar Fernandez-Taranco. At the meeting held at Hilaaleege, the President briefed the Assistant Secretary General on the measures being taken to find peaceful and amicable solutions in tackling the political conflicts faced in the Maldives. The President also said that his most important responsibility was to deliver a peaceful and harmonious environment to the people, by safeguarding the constitution and the rule of law in the country.

New Maldives leader says he will submit to probe
A visiting U.S. official said Saturday that the Maldives wasn't ready for early elections as a way out of its political crisis as the Indian Ocean nation's new president agreed to an independent investigation into his takeover of power. President Mohammed Waheed Hassan said he had given an assurance to visiting U.S. Assistant Secretary of State Robert Blake that he was willing to submit to a probe by an independent body as questions had arisen about the transfer of power.

India, U.S. work for Maldives coalition
After India did the ground work of talking long hours to all parties to the conflict in the Maldives, the United States has stepped in to ensure that the new government sticks to its professed mandate of forming a unity government. Both M. Ganapathi, Secretary (West), Ministry of External Affairs, and U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Robert O' Blake held meetings with the former President, Mohammed Nasheed, the new President, Waheed Hassan, and other players. They stressed that the formation of a truly rainbow coalition was in the best interests of the people. The Maldivian Democratic Party of Mr. Nasheed will also talk to the new regime on joining the government.

Hands Off Maldives Says Sri Lanka
The Sri Lankan government wants the international community to keep its hands off the Maldives and let the Maldives deal with its own issues, the External Affairs Ministry said. The position of the government was decided upon following a government meeting held on Friday, Deputy External Affairs Minister Neomal Perera told The Sunday Leader. Meanwhile IGP N. K. Illangakoon said the police is providing security to the wife of former Maldivian President Mohamed Nasheed. Illangakoon confirmed he was instructed by President Mahinda Rajapaksa to provide security for Nasheed’s wife after she fled to Sri Lanka when the Maldivian President was asked to step down last week. Several police personnel joined protesters demanding the Maldivian President, known as a human rights campaigner, to step down.

Resorts accused in Maldives coup
MALE, the Maldives: The former president ousted in a coup last week has accused resort owners of plotting to overthrow him in reaction to his vision of a free-market paradise. Mohamed Nasheed said some owners of the Maldives' beach resorts financed the coup because they resented competition for contracts and fixed direct taxes. He said his own intelligence officers confirmed their involvement in the coup in a marriage of convenience with Muslim extremists.

Maldives turmoil worries India
With the situation in the Maldives showing no signs of improvement, India is worried that prolonged political instability in the Indian Ocean archipelago could lead to radicalisation of the Maldivian society. “There have already been attempts in recent months by extremist elements to get into the Maldives…we are worried and continue to closely monitor the situation,” sources said today. M Ganpathi, Secretary (West) in the External Affairs Ministry, who had been deputed by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to visit the Maldives, has already held discussions with different leaders in Male. He is expected to brief the PM on his talks soon. Meanwhile, former dictator MA Gayoom, who ruled the Maldives for nearly three decades, is expected to return to Male tomorrow. Ousted President Mohammed Nasheed has already stated that what has happened in his country should be traced to Gayoom’s network.

New Maldives leader says he will submit to probe
A visiting U.S. official said Saturday that the Maldives wasn't ready for early elections as a way out of its political crisis as the Indian Ocean nation's new president agreed to an independent investigation into his takeover of power. President Mohammed Waheed Hassan said he had given an assurance to visiting U.S. Assistant Secretary of State Robert Blake that he was willing to submit to a probe by an independent body as questions had arisen about the transfer of power. Former leader Mohamed Nasheed resigned Tuesday after police joined months of street protests against his rule and soldiers defected. He was replaced by Hassan, his vice president. Nasheed later said he was ousted in a coup, and there is an arrest warrant against him. The new government denies the coup claims and insists Nasheed stepped down voluntarily. It has made no move to arrest Nasheed.

                 11 February 2012 | Saturday                 

President announces investigation into the recent events that took place in the Maldives

Speaking at a press conference held today at the President’s Office, President. Dr Mohamed Waheed Hassan has announced an investigation into the events that took place in the country from 14 January to 8 February 2012. The President called for chaos on the streets to stop and to restore peace and calm. He added that as the country’s economy depends on tourism, it is important that the country maintains its good image as a peaceful country. He further re-assured that life and property of all citizens will be protected. He also said the previous government’s projects and programmes that are beneficial to the people would continue. The President further announced that his administration would give a high priority to reinstate the civil service salary and implement court rulings on employment disputes over the years. President Waheed also urged all political parties and leaders to put forward national interest before politics. He said: “The way of responsible leaders is not cause strife among the people. The way of responsible leaders should be to resolve disputes peacefully through dialogue”. The President also took questions from the media.

President meets US Assistant Secretary of State for South Asia

President Dr Mohamed Waheed has this morning met with U.S. Assistant Secretary of State Robert Blake. During the meeting held at Hilaaleege, the President briefed Mr Blake on the measures being taken to find a peaceful solution in resolving the current political problems in the country. The President also said that his top priority was to restore peace and order in the country.

US faces criticism from former Maldives leader, backtracks on its recognition of new gov’t
The United States on Friday backtracked from its swift recognition of the new Maldives government, which the nation’s former leader claims came to power in a coup. The Maldives has faced one day of rioting and two days more of a political standoff since Mohamed Nasheed announced Tuesday that he was resigning as president, following months of protests against his rule and fading support from the security forces. But the next day Nasheed, who now faces an arrest warrant, announced he had actually been pushed from power at gunpoint. The reality remains unclear.

Maldives: India worked backstage
India worked behind the scenes to ensure a smooth transition in Maldives with President Mohamed Nasheed resigning in favour of Vice-President Mohamed Waheed on Tuesday afternoon after weeks of unrest in the island nation. While New Delhi has made it clear that there is no case for intervention in what is an “internal matter” of the nation, it is believed that the Indian High Commission was in the picture during consultations between opposition parties and the government on Tuesday to ensure that the situation did not break down into chaos. It is learnt that Indian diplomats helped in bringing together the ruling and opposition parties for talks.

                 10 February 2012 | Friday                 

Attacking courts is obstruction of justice: Ahmed Faiz CJ

Chief Justice Ahmed Faiz has said that attacking and inflicting damages on island courts and thereby obstruct the judges from carrying out their responsibilities is an obstruction of justice. The Chief Justice condemned the acts of arson, vandalism and attacks perpetrated by supporters of the former ruling party on courts in island strongholds of ex-President Mohamed Nasheed's party. According to reports in the media, the damages to the courts alone are worth 50 million Maldivian Ruffiya. Faiz said that important documents have also been lost because of the damages done. The documents include the information on marriages, documents and records related to the rights of many of the people were burned. He called the people not to cause damages to public properties and to work in accordance to the constitution. Furthermore, Faiz called the people to maintain peace and stability in the nation.

US recognises new government of Maldives
(ndtv): The United States on Thursday recognised the new government of Maldives President Mohamed Waheed as legitimate and urged him to fulfill a pledge to form a national unity government. State Department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland also said Robert Blake, the top US diplomat for south Asia, telephoned former president Mohamed Nasheed to tell him Washington backed a "peaceful resolution" of the crisis on the archipelago.

No sign of danger to Maldives’ tourists says EU envoy
(euronews): Tourism and fishing are the Maldives’ major industries, but now there is trouble in paradise. The EU’s representative in the region told euronews: “At this stage, given our information, we would not say that there has been any legal infringement of constitutional forms.” Bernard Savage, Head of the EU Delegation to Sri Lanka and the Maldives said: “We are not taking sides but, as the High Representative Cathy Ashton has made clear, what we support is the constitutional order, the rule of law and the continuance of democracy, and we expect all parties to refrain from violent actions and inflammatory rhetoric in order to ensure that the democratic transition of the Maldives continues.” Around one million visitors a year enjoy the Maldives luxury getaway resorts. What about their safety in the current climate? From his office in Colombo, Sri Lanka, Savage said: “Most tourists arrive in the Maldives into Hulhule Island, which is a separate island opposite Male, and then go from there directly to the resorts.” “Resorts in the Maldives are all in what are classified as ‘uninhabited’ islands; there are no Maldivian nationals living there.” “There is no indication that there is any physical danger,” he added. “The operations at Hulhule Island are going ahead as normal. The question of the publicity that this gives to the Maldives is something which we will see in time, but clearly political unrest is never a good advert for a country.”

President meets with the UN Resident Coordinator

President Dr Mohamed Waheed has yesterday met with the UN Resident Coordinator and UNDP Resident Representative Mr Andrew Cox and briefed him on the current situation. During the meeting held at the President’s Office, the President stated that his key priorities included the restoration of public confidence in democratic institutions by upholding the rule of law and uncompromising adherence to the Constitution. While appreciating the UNDP’s close engagement with the Government, the President also expressed hope that the UNDP will assist the judiciary reform process in order to ensure that the judiciary is fully independent and is protected from all outside interference.

President reassures his commitment to restore peace and order in the country
In a press statement, issued by the President’s Office yesterday, President Dr Mohamed Waheed has reassured his commitment to is to restore peace and order in the country. The press statement reads as follows: “This is the time for all citizens to unite and work diligently to uphold the sovereignty of the Constitution and restore the rule of law in the country. The President’s highest priority now is to restore peace and security for the people. The President is determined, to form a National Unity Government with a multiparty Cabinet. The President assures the people, that even until a Cabinet is formed, all public services will continue”.

Sri Lankan President Congratulates President Waheed
President Mahinda Rajapaksa of Sri Lanka has conveyed his congratulations to President Dr Mohamed Waheed. President Waheed thanked President Rajapaksa for calling him on the telephone and for the good wishes. President Waheed also briefed President Rajapaksa on the current situation of the country.

British holidaymakers 'unaffected' in Maldives, says Foreign Office
Despite a Foreign Office warning against all but essential travel to the Maldives capital, the unrest has not spread to where most holidaymakers arrive and stay. British holidaymakers in the Maldives have been unaffected by the civil unrest that has spread across the islands, the Foreign Office said today. Furthermore, although the Foreign Office is now warning against all but essential travel to the capital, Malé and most of Malé Island, the warning does not extend to Malé International Airport, where most holidaymakers arrive, or to travel from the airport to the many resort islands in the Maldives archipelago. The latest foreign office advice follows weeks of protests and rioting that led to the resignation on Tuesday of President Mohamed Nasheed, the country’s first democratically-elected leader.

                 9 February 2012 | Thursay                 

Ex-President leads riots, arson and vandalism in a bid to regain the presidency

(Raajjenews): ex-President Mohamed Nasheed yesterday took to Male’ streets, demanding his job back. Nasheed and his ex-Ministers led street riots in Male’ which vandalized private and public property. These were supported by arson, vandalism and attacks on police stations in island strongholds of Nasheed’s party. In the countrywide terror campaign led by ex President Nasheed, up to now, 9 police stations, 3 Court Houses and 1 Council Office has been razed to the ground by MDP activists yesterday.

Judiciary will be free from government influence – President Dr. Waheed

President Dr Mohamed Waheed has assured that the Judiciary will be free from government influence. He made this statement while speaking at a press conference held at the President’s Office yesterday afternoon. He said that his key priorities included the restoration of public confidence in democratic institutions by upholding the rule of law and uncompromising adherence to the Constitution. The President further added that he was working to establish a national unity government with parties across the Majlis was also a top priority. Emphasising the importance of due process, upholding of fundamental constitutional rights and rule of law, the President called on all parties to ensure that the Constitution, governing laws and principles of democracy are respected. With the cooperation of all political parties, the President is confident of attaining democratic aspirations of the people.

President Appoints Dr Jameel as Home Minister and Nazim as Defence Minister

President Dr Mohamed Waheed has appointed Dr Mohamed Jameel Ahmed as the Minister of Home Affairs, and Mohamed Nazim as the Minister of Defence and National Security, at a ceremony held at the President’s Office this evening. Speaking after the presentation of the Letter of Appointment, President Waheed asked the ministers to employ their experiences to resolve the current situation of the country. He also noted that their foremost duty should be to implement justice according to the constitution, and to treat every citizen equally. Prior to the presentation of the Letter of Appointment, Dr Mohamed Jameel Ahmed and Mohamed Nazim took the oath of office, of the member of the Cabinet, before the Supreme Court Judge Abdulla Areef. Dr Mohamed Jameel has previously held the post of Minister of Justice during President Maumoon’s administration and the post of Minister of Civil Aviation and Communication during President Nasheed’s administration. Mohamed Nazim has previously served the positions of Lieutenant, First Lieutenant, and Captain at the National Security Service, and as Major, Lieutenant Colonel and Colonel at the Maldives National Defence Force.

Indian PM assures full support to Maldivian Govt

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh of India has assured the Indian government’s full support to the government of the Maldives. During a telephone conversation with President Dr Mohamed Waheed, Prime Minister Singh highlighted the long existing bilateral relations between India and the Maldives, and discussed further strengthening of these relations. The President expressed his gratitude to the Prime Minister for the telephone call and offering India’s support to the Maldivian government. In addition to the phone call, the Indian Prime Minister has also sent a congratulatory message to President Waheed, following his success to office.
 

Indian High Commissioner calls on the President

President Dr Mohamed Waheed has yesterday met with the High Commissioner of India Dnyaneshwar Mulay. Discussions at the meeting were focused on the close bilateral relations between the two countries and ways to enhance these relations. The High Commissioner offered his confidence of the Indian government’s full support to the government of the Maldives. President Waheed reiterated that his objective was to compose a national unity government.

British High Commissioner assures British govt’s full support to Maldives
President Dr Mohamed Waheed has yesterday met with the British High Commissioner accredited to the Maldives, John Rankin. During the meeting held at the President’s Office, the President and the High Commissioner discussed ways to further strengthen and extend the close relations between the two countries. The High Commissioner also assured President Waheed of the British government’s full support to the Maldives.

Liquor and hash oil found in Former President Nasheed’s residence
The Police have said that the belongings of former President Nasheed who resigned yesterday include, large amounts liquor bottles and evidence of the use of hash oil (a product of cannabis or ganja). The Police did not reveal the number of liquor bottles found. They also said that several of the liquor bottles were packed in boxes stamped with the Maldivian emblem having security checked seals from the Special Protection Group (SPG) of the Maldives National Defence Force. According to the Police some of the packages addressed to Nasheed from foreign parties sent to him as gifts. Some of the packages were addressed to close associates of Nasheed, including his close friend Ziyad (Ziyattey). Nasheed has been often accused of drinking alcohol and using hash oil, and he was known to have espousing a policy of legalizing “soft drugs”. And because of the suspicions of drug use he was nick named “Ganjabo” (pothead) by the opposition during his three year rule.

Maldives Police Service Press Release: 08th February 2012
Under the pretext of ousting the interim government, a number of individuals have been out on the streets of the capital vicinity and other provinces of Maldives committing atrocious acts of inhumane crimes like battery, assault towards citizens and inflicting destruction of private possessions, trade outlets and government property. It has also been communicated that local Police Stations throughout the Maldives have been made a target of this malice. With the level of hostility detected in the current turmoil, it has also been feared that the ongoing protests by the former ruling party has steered towards acts of terrorism and violence within the capital city and throughout the Maldives.