The United States has renewed it’s call on the government of the Maldives to release former President Mohamed Nasheed، and to end politically motivated trials.
In a statement released by the State Department، the U.S. said it is disturbed by the Government of Maldives’ recent late-night transfer of former President Nasheed back to prison.
“Former President Nasheed is serving a sentence imposed after a trial that was conducted in a manner contrary to Maldivian law and Maldives’ international obligations to provide the minimum fair trial guarantees and other protections under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights،” statement said.
Furthermore، U.S. called on the government of the Maldives to take steps to restore confidence in its commitment to democracy and the rule of law، including judicial independence، and to ensure fundamental rights are respected، including the freedom of speech، press، and peaceful assembly.
“We further urge the government to make progress on all political cases pending، including against former Defense Minister Nazim، whose appeal process has been delayed، and against Adhaalath Party Sheikh Imran.”
In addition، the U.S. urged the government to ensure former President Nasheed’s safety and well-being in custody.