President calls for renewal of commitment to democracy

President Mohamed Nasheed called on the public yesterday to renew their commitment to consolidating democracy in the Maldives while “visualising the big picture” on the occasion of the International Day of Democracy.

“To reap the benefits of democracy, we must prioritise empowerment of women in national, political and social matters, strengthen civil society, establish a strong and proper judiciary, and implement measures to ensure respect and trust for judges,” reads the president’s message.

“We must remind ourselves that the development we hope for can only be achieved by inter party agreements on decentralisation and enacting free and fair local and national elections.”

Meanwhile opposition Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP) Leader Ahmed Thasmeen Ali, writing in his personal website, accused the government of jeopardizing the country’s nascent democracy.

“Two years on, today, the joy seems to have vanished. Signs of discontent, dismay and frustration are to be seen and heard across the country,” he writes.

“The mixed emotions have strongly skewed towards distrust to the government on its direction, ability to deliver, and above all, the government’s sincerity in safeguarding the democratic principles and promoting democratic values.”

As a result of the “irresponsible” government, he argues, public confidence in a  democratic system of governance is compromised.

“It is a moral obligation of the government to promote democracy and its values and deliver on its campaign promises. DRP shall, in the best interest of the nation, keep on pressing the government to be responsible and will continue our fight for democracy and all its values.”

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