The Maldives government has once more invited the opposition to come forward to initiate all-party talks.
In a statement released by the President’s Office, the government congratulated Kashidhoo MP Faisal Naseem, on his nomination as Jumhooree Party (JP)’s running mate to contest alongside Maldivian Democratic Party’s (MDP) presidential candidate Ibrahim Mohammed ‘Ibu’ Solih in the upcoming presidential elections slated for September.
The government noted that campaign activities are underway peacefully and urged all parties to conduct themselves in a manner which will allow for an independent, free, fair and transparent election this year.
The statement urged all international bodies to provide support and assistance in the process of elections and to refrain from any actions which may negatively impact presidential elections 2018 in the Maldives.
The government further called upon MDP presidential candidate Solih, and his running mate, Faisal Naseem of JP to accept the government’s renewed invitation for all-party talks, noting the importance on holding the talks to ensure a free, fair, transparent and successful election.
The government had earlier extended invitation for all-party talks to main opposition MDP upon electing Hinnavaru MP Solih as the party’s presidential candidate. The opposition, however, did not respond to the government’s invitation.
Despite several invitations from the government, opposition parties have been refusing to attend all-party talks since their last discussion in 2015.
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