The Ambassador of the European Union together with the Ambassadors of France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Romania, the UK, Canada and the United States have followed with increasing concern the recent deterioration of the situation in the Maldives, especially in relation to the pre-election process. Legitimate opposition is a vital part of any healthy democracy, and it is critical that authorities respect fundamental freedoms, including freedom of assembly and speech. We urge authorities to demonstrate genuine commitment to a credible, transparent, and inclusive election process. We will continue to closely monitor the respect for these freedoms in the run-up to the Presidential Elections.
