Asia Democracy Network’s deep concern
about the state of emergency in the Maldives
Asia Democracy Network
November 6, 2015
Asia Democracy Network (ADN) expresses our deep concern about the recent developments against democracy in the Maldives and the 30 day state of emergency declared by the Government of Maldives on 4 November 2015.
The state of emergency was announced ahead of a major anti-government rally scheduled on 6 November as well as the no confidence motion against Vice President, Ahmed Adeeb, accused of plotting to assassinate President Abdullah Yameen Abdul Gayoom.
The state of emergency allowed the Government to suspend the fundamental civil and political rights including the right to the freedom of assembly and association, freedom of movement, and safeguard against unlawful arrest or detention. The decree of emergency, prospects further crackdown on political dissents in the country corresponding to the recent developments of legislative moves. The recently enacted terrorism law and regulations on civil society organizations intend to suppress civil society, media, and political decent who are key actors to ensure the democratic values in a society.
The ADN condemns the suspension of fundamental rights and freedoms such as, rights of assembly, free expression, freedom from arbitrary detention and freedom of movement. ADN calls on the government to immediately restore constitutional freedoms to its citizens and also reminds the Government that their action shall be consistent with the state obligations under international law.
The ADN as a regional civil society organization promoting democracy in Asia, calls on the Government of Maldives to ensure space for civil society which is the essential principle for a democratic society.
To download the full statement, click HERE.
Contact info:
ADN Secretariat adn2013seoul@gmail.com
