UK urges calm amid escalating political tension in Maldives

Amid escalating political strife and violence in the Maldives, Britain has called on all interlocutors to show restraint in the interest of achieving sustainable political reconciliation. In a statement, UK Foreign Office Minister Alistair Burt noted that the efforts to restore calm and stability in Maldives are being hampered by increasing political tension and escalating violence.

“I call on all sides to show restraint in the interest of achieving a sustainable political solution to Maldives’ recent problems. Protests must be peaceful and the security response professional and proportionate. Violence and any cases of excessive use of force should be investigated and those responsible held to account,” Burt stressed.

Reiterating the call of the Commonwealth European Union (EU) and the United Nations (UN), the statement also expressed hope that the proposed high-level sit-down of political parties could take place at the earliest to identify peaceful ways through the ongoing difficulties.

Minister further stressed on the significance of the Commission of National Inquiry (CNI) set up to probe the events leading up to and following the regime change on February 7 to be able to conclude its work “swiftly, fairly and independently, so that the circumstances surrounding the events are clearly established.”

On that note, Burt called on all relevant actors of the Maldives to refrain from any actions that could jeopardize the stable environment needed to facilitate the CNI to complete its work and pave the way for free and fair elections.

“The British Government will maintain contact with all parties in Maldives and with engaged international partners. Our shared goal is a stable, peaceful and democratic future for the Maldivian people,” the statement concluded.
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