Germany concerned over fate of Maldives

The German Embassy in a statement yesterday said it was deeply concerned about the continuing erosion of democracy in the Maldives in recent days. 

The non-confidence motion against the Speaker of the Maldivian Parliament was defeated after the vote had been conducted in a way that clearly violated the rules of procedure of the Parliament.

The disturbing news about the ensuing harassment of opposition politicians is contrary to democratic standards. The ongoing worrying developments are clearly not conducive to the sustainable economic development of the Maldives. Germany strongly urges the Maldivian Government to respect democratic norms and to stop the harassment of media, opposition parliamentarians and civil society.