[wanabidii] Press Releases: Taken Question: Concerns on Recent Developments in Maldives

You are subscribed to Press Releases for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Press Releases: Taken Question: Concerns on Recent Developments in Maldives 03/27/2015 07:34 PM EDT Concerns on Recent Developments in Maldives Taken Question Office of the Spokesperson Washington, DC Question Taken at the March 27, 2015 Daily Press Briefing March 27, 2015 Question: Does the United States have any comment on the arrest of the former Maldivian Defense Minister? Answer: The United States is deeply troubled by recent developments in Maldives that call into question that nation’s commitment to democracy and individual human rights. These developments include the conviction of former Defense Minister Mohamed Nazim, who was sentenced to 11 years in prison on weapons charges March 26, and the March 25 arrest of Maldivian journalists under allegations of obstructing police duties. Nazim’s trial was particularly concerning, as it was marred by the same apparent lack of appropriate criminal procedures as the recent trial of former President Mohamed Nasheed, including the inability to call the requested number of defense witnesses and concerns regarding the lack of impartiality and independence of the judges. Freedom of the press is a fundamental democratic right, and we are in touch with Maldivian authorities to clarify why the journalists have been detained without charges. We call on the Government of Maldives to take steps to restore confidence in its hard-fought democracy and the rule of law, including judicial independence and freedom of the press. The Office of Website Management, Bureau of Public Affairs, manages this site as a portal for information from the U.S. State Department. External links to other Internet sites should not be construed as an endorsement of the views or privacy policies contained therein. Stay connected with the State Department:       External links found in this content or on Department of State websites that go to other non-Department websites should not be construed as an endorsement of the views or privacy policies contained therein.  Update your subscriptions, modify your password or email address, or stop subscriptions at any time on your Subscriber Preferences Page. You will need to use your email address to log in. If you have questions or problems with the subscription service, please visit subscriberhelp.govdelivery.com. This service is provided to you at no charge by U.S. Department of State. This email was sent to wanabidii@googlegroups.com using GovDelivery, on behalf of: U.S. Department of State · 2201 C Street NW · Washington, DC 20520