The United States is deeply concerned about continued legal actions that could further delay the Maldivian presidential election and prevent former President Nasheed from participating. With the Maldivian Supreme Court ruling that a new round of elections must be held and the Elections Commissions making preparations for voting by October 20, it is important that the process go forward unimpeded in a fair, inclusive and transparent way.

The basis of any democracy is for citizens to choose their government, for political differences to be decided at the ballot box in an environment free of violence and for election results to be respected.

We continue to urge a peaceful political process that is inclusive of all candidates in order to ensure the Maldivian election that will meet international standards of an elected, legitimate democracy.