Australian High Commission
Colombo
MEDIA RELEASE
Wednesday, 12 March 2014
Statement on removal of Maldivian Elections Commissioners
The Australian Government notes with concern the ruling of the Supreme Court of the Maldives on 9 March 2014 dismissing the Chair and Vice Chair of the Elections Commission, and sentencing the Chair of the Elections Commission to six months in prison, suspended for three years.
In a democracy it is crucially important that constitutionally-established civil institutions, including for election administration, be able to function independently, free from interference, and in accordance with the principle of separation of powers.
Australia’s firm expectation is that the parliamentary elections scheduled for 22 March will be held in a manner that is free, fair, credible and peaceful. We urge all state institutions, political leaders, and parliamentary candidates in the Maldives to work together to achieve this.
Along with other Commonwealth member states and other concerned parties in the international community, Australia will continue to watch developments in the Maldives closely.