Holding second round of elections in a timely fashion is central to the democratic process: U.S.

The United States of America has stated that holding the second round of presidential elections in a timely fashion is central to the democratic process in the Maldives.

In a statement today, the U.S. Embassy in Colombo noted that the high turnout reflects the Maldivian people's desire to elect democratically their own representatives.

"Holding the second round of elections in a timely fashion -- as mandated by the Maldivian constitution -- is central to the democratic process and a peaceful transition of power that reflects the will of the Maldivian people," read the statement.

The statement also revealed that U.S. Ambassador Michele J. Sison was in Male' on the 24th and 25th of September for meetings, where she urged Maldivian officials and political party leaders to resolve the issue of elections promptly.