EU to deploy observation mission for Maldives pres election

The European Union (EU) has decided to deploy an election observation mission to the Maldives to observe the presidential elections scheduled for September 9.

In a statement, the EU said its High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission, Josep Borrell, has appointed Nacho Sánchez Amor, member of the European parliament, as chief observer.

The statement quoted Borrell as saying that the EU and the Maldives maintain strong bilateral ties, as attested by the recent 4th senior officials meeting held in Brussels.

"We are contributing to the oncoming electoral process through the Electoral Observation Mission led by Chief Observer Sánchez Amor. The European Union is a close partner of the Maldives and is committed to support the country’s efforts in consolidating democratic reforms and their implementation," he said.

Amor said the presidential elections will be another defining moment in the Maldives democratic path.

"I trust all parties will strive for credible, transparent and inclusive elections," he said.

The EU is among the 15 international observers invited by the Elections Commission.

The Elections Commission has also signed MoUs with local institutions including police, the Civil Service Commission, the Department of National Registration, the Maldives Post and the Local Government Authority to facilitate arrangements for the election.