London, 15 February 2013 - Commonwealth Secretary-General Kamalesh Sharma has expressed his appreciation for the constructive discussion he had by telephone today with the President of Maldives, HE Dr Mohamed Waheed, regarding recent developments in the country.
The Secretary-General stressed the national importance of inclusive and credible presidential elections. This requires that chosen candidates of political parties are able to contest the elections freely in a level playing field.
Mr Sharma said that a dialogue among political leaders would create a conducive environment for such elections and political stability.
The Secretary-General reaffirmed the Commonwealth’s commitment to continuing to work in partnership with Maldives as it seeks to strengthen its democratic institutions and support the responsibilities of the Elections Commission.
