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Former Maldivian president seeks asylum in Indian High Commission
[Xinhua] Former Maldivian President Mohammed Nasheed on Wednesday sought refuge at the Indian High Commission in Maldives following summons issued by a local court to produce him over a case.Nasheed's party, the Maldives Democratic Party (MDP) said that the party will have an urgent meeting later in the evening following the latest developments. Presidential Spokesperson Imad Masood told Xinhua that summons were issued after Nasheed defied a court order to be present in court and the court in return issued an order to the police to produce him. However, those who apply themselves too closely to little things often become incapable of great things... Nasheed's political party, the MDP, has strongly condemned the arrest warrant and reiterated its belief that the arrest warrant and the charges against him are politically motivated. "The MDP calls on the international community to remain vigilant and immediately intervene to ensure a free and fair trial for Nasheed," his party said on Wednesday. The MDP further said that the second hearing of the case was scheduled on Feb. 10 while Nasheed was on a visit to India and was unable to return to Male' due to a medical emergency. However Nasheed's lawyers had informed the court in writing as stated in the court's regulations, the party said. Nasheed stepped down as president in February last year amidst violent protests over some of the decisions he had taken while in power. Nasheed subsequently claimed that he was forced to step down in order for the current President Mohamed Waheed Hassan to take office. Posted by: Fred 2013-02-14 |
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