Freedom of expression is threatened in Maldives: US Ambassador

United States Ambassador to the Maldives Patricia Butenis has said that freedom of expression in the Maldives is threatened as a result of attacks on journalists and obstructions imposed on demonstrators.

Butenis made this statement while speaking to reporters at the VIP Lounge at Ibrahim Nasir International Airport, after concluding her visit to the Maldives.

She referred to the repeated attacks on journalist and blogger Hilath Rasheed, and said that such attacks interfere with peace in the society.

She urged the government to take action to protect people’s rights.

She stressed that the US will always uphold the basic principles of democracy such as freedom to expression and right to protest, and assured that the US will assist the Maldives in this regard.

She advised that protests should be held within the limits and regulations, and called on Police and journalists to exercise professionalism in their work.

Butenis noted that Maldivians must work towards resolving the current political challenges, and said that the US will not take a stand in relation to the transfer of power until the Commission of National Inquiry (CNI) completes its investigation. The US government will continue to cooperate with the current government until then.

She expressed hope that the CNI’s report will inform a date for an early election.

She said that the meetings held with the former Presidents were fruitful, and that she had congratulated former President Nasheed for his participation in CNI’s investigation. She had also called on former President Gayoom to work towards achieving positive results from the all-party-talks.

Butenis concluded the press conference by urging all groups, including political leaders, to set aside private and personal issues and work towards the benefit of the nation.