In a statement, the foreign ministry highlighted that elections are the primary means of democratic participation and attempts to resolve questions relating to the electoral process through democratic means is also part of democracy. "These fundamental principles of democracy and the rule of law should be accepted by all concerned," Whilst lauding the role of both local and international observers in monitoring the elections, the government pointed out that state institutions are constitutionally mandated to address any question related to the elections and electoral process. "It is in fact the people of the Maldives that wanted such an election more than anyone else, and the government did everything possible to ensure that the election is held in accordance with the letter and spirit of the constitution," the statement issued amidst international calls to proceed with the runoff of the presidential polls as planned said. The UK, the Commonwealth and India which were part of the international observers monitoring the elections had called for the second round to be held as planned and urged all political parties and candidates to respect the wish of the people. Meanwhile, the United States government has also urged all political parties and all presidential candidates to respect the results of the first round and work together for a peaceful transition for the benefit of the Maldivian people. Jumhooree Party (JP) presidential elections Gasim Ibrahim who narrowly missed out in a place in the second round of the polls later this month has alleged irregularities in the voters’ list and requested the supreme court to annul first round of elections. The appeal has been backed by Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) whose candidate Abdulla Yamin remained runner-up. The allegations have been refuted by the Election Commission and opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) whose candidate former president Mohamed Nasheed won the first round with overwhelming 45 per cent of total votes.