President Nasheed: Implementation of constitution is the biggest challenge in Maldives; Nasheed reappoints his cabinet; US Ambassador to Maldives mediated between MDP and opposition parties for talks; United States:
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    • After the mass resignation of the cabinet on June 29, 2010, President Nasheed in his weekly radio address stated that the biggest challenge lie in the implementation of the constitution. Nasheed also alleged that bribes had played a major role in shaping the decisions of the Majlis.1

    In order to reconcile the differences between the executive and the legislature, the US Ambassador to Maldives Patricia Butenis mediated between ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and opposition parties. Representatives of the People’s Alliance (PA), Dhivehi Quamee Party (DQP), Jumhooree Party (JP), along with Deputy Speaker Ahmed Nazim and leader of the Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP) Ahmed Thasmeen Ali met with President Nasheed. Reports noted that that Nasheed expressed interest in working with the opposition.2 The political crisis seemed to be in control as Nasheed reappointed his 13 member cabinet on July 8, 2010.3 The United States also urged Maldives to accept international mediation in resolving the ongoing political crisis.4 Meanwhile, Sri Lankan President Rajapaksa visited Maldives in order to end the political standoff between ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and the opposition parties. He suggested forming of a committee of six members of the parliament to address the pending issues.5

    Meanwhile the Supreme Court of Maldives reversed the decision of the High Court to detain two MPs Gasim Ibrahim and Abdulla Yameen who are under house arrest for fifteen days. The court ordered their release from the detention by the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF).6 However, despite the Supreme Court orders Yameen continues to be detained by the MNDF. However, the opposition has launched series of protest against the continued detention of Yameen.7

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