Maldives' new finance minister said on Monday that China is executing infrastructure projects at vastly higher prices than originally proposed but the island nation cannot get out of its commitments now.

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's administration, which took office this month, is reviewing contracts awarded by his predecessor Abdulla Yameen. Most went to Chinese firms and are feared to have left the country in debt.

During a five-year building spree, China built a sea bridge connecting the capital city of Male to the main airport on another island and is developing the airport itself as well as building mass housing on land reclaimed from the sea.

But Finance Minister Ibrahim Ameer told reporters during a visit to New Delhi that his officials had spend the first week in office trying to reconcile loans that the previous government took for these projects and the sovereign guarantees that it gave for them.

"We believe that most of these projects are at inflated prices, and so we are looking at them," Ameer said.

But he said the government could not go back on the contracts because many of these, including the bridge, were already completed.

"We cannot do much in terms of renegotiation but going forward our objective would be to reduce the cost of our infrastructure projects," he said.

One of the projects was a hospital in Male awarded to China which had already run up a cost $140 million, far more than a rival offer $54 million that was originally made, Ameer said.

China has built ports, bridges and highways in countries stretching from Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and its ally Pakistan as part of its Belt and Road Initiative for a trade and transit corridor across Asia and into Europe.

But of late it has faced criticism that many of its massive projects costing millions of dollars are pushing the smaller countries into debt.

India, which has been traditional partner for most of the South Asian countries, has in addition viewed the expansive Chinese diplomacy as aimed at securing an outpost in some of the island nations such as Sri Lanka and the Maldives.

Maldives' foreign minister Abdulla Shahid said he had assured Indian leaders that his country wanted the best of ties with its immediate neighbours and would return to an "India First" policy.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended Solih's inauguration and said India stood ready to help the country tide over its financial difficulties.

China has rejected allegations it was driving the Maldives to debt and said it hopes the new government will continue with policies to attract investment.

Maldives' new finance minister said on Monday that China is executing infrastructure projects at vastly higher prices than originally proposed but the island nation cannot get out of its commitments now.

Maldives' new finance minister said on Monday that China is executing infrastructure projects at vastly higher prices than originally proposed but the island nation cannot get out of its commitments now. President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's administration, which took office this month, is reviewing contracts awarded by his predecessor Abdulla Yameen. Most went to Chinese firms and are feared to have left the country in debt. During a five-year building spree, China built a sea bridge connecting the capital city of Male to the main airport on another island and is developing the airport itself as well as building mass housing on land reclaimed from the sea. But Finance Minister Ibrahim Ameer told reporters during a visit to New Delhi that his officials had spend the first week in office trying to reconcile loans that the previous government took for these projects and the sovereign guarantees that it gave for them. "We believe that most of these projects are at inflated prices, and so we are looking at them," Ameer said. But he said the government could not go back on the contracts because many of these, including the bridge, were already completed. "We cannot do much in terms of renegotiation but going forward our objective would be to reduce the cost of our infrastructure projects," he said. One of the projects was a hospital in Male awarded to China which had already run up a cost $140 million, far more than a rival offer $54 million that was originally made, Ameer said. China has built ports, bridges and highways in countries stretching from Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and its ally Pakistan as part of its Belt and Road Initiative for a trade and transit corridor across Asia and into Europe. But of late it has faced criticism that many of its massive projects costing millions of dollars are pushing the smaller countries into debt. India, which has been traditional partner for most of the South Asian countries, has in addition viewed the expansive Chinese diplomacy as aimed at securing an outpost in some of the island nations such as Sri Lanka and the Maldives. Maldives' foreign minister Abdulla Shahid said he had assured Indian leaders that his country wanted the best of ties with its immediate neighbours and would return to an "India First" policy. Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended Solih's inauguration and said India stood ready to help the country tide over its financial difficulties. China has rejected allegations it was driving the Maldives to debt and said it hopes the new government will continue with policies to attract investment.

Maldives says China is building projects at inflated prices

Foreign Minister of the Maldives Abdulla Shahid will arrive today on a four-day visit, with an aim to repair the bilateral ties which came under severe strain during the previous government in the island nation.

Officials said External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj will hold extensive talks with Mr Shahid on Monday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had attended the swearing-in ceremony of Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih on November 17 in Male.

During their meeting, PM Modi and Mohamed Solih vowed to renew close ties and friendship between the two countries and agreed on the importance of maintaining peace and security in the Indian Ocean region.

Mohamed Solih, as the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party's candidate, had surprisingly defeated strongman Abdulla Yameen in the presidential election held on September 23.

India-Maldives ties came under strain under &nbsp;Abdulla Yameen who was perceived to be close to China. Some decisions by &nbsp;Abdulla Yameen including imposition of restrictions on work visas for Indians and signing of a new Free Trade Agreement with Beijing also did not go down well with New Delhi.

Relations between India and the Maldives deteriorated further after &nbsp;Abdulla Yameen imposed emergency on February 5 this year.

India had criticised his decision and asked his government to restore the credibility of the electoral and political process by releasing political prisoners. The emergency lasted for 45 days.

Foreign Minister of the Maldives Abdulla Shahid will arrive today on a four-day visit, with an aim to repair the bilateral ties which came under severe strain during the previous government in the island nation.

Foreign Minister of the Maldives Abdulla Shahid will arrive today on a four-day visit, with an aim to repair the bilateral ties which came under severe strain during the previous government in the island nation. Officials said External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj will hold extensive talks with Mr Shahid on Monday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had attended the swearing-in ceremony of Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih on November 17 in Male. During their meeting, PM Modi and Mohamed Solih vowed to renew close ties and friendship between the two countries and agreed on the importance of maintaining peace and security in the Indian Ocean region. Mohamed Solih, as the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party's candidate, had surprisingly defeated strongman Abdulla Yameen in the presidential election held on September 23. India-Maldives ties came under strain under Abdulla Yameen who was perceived to be close to China. Some decisions by Abdulla Yameen including imposition of restrictions on work visas for Indians and signing of a new Free Trade Agreement with Beijing also did not go down well with New Delhi. Relations between India and the Maldives deteriorated further after Abdulla Yameen imposed emergency on February 5 this year. India had criticised his decision and asked his government to restore the credibility of the electoral and political process by releasing political prisoners. The emergency lasted for 45 days.

Maldivian foreign minister to visit India today

Maldives' President-elect Ibrahim Mohamed Solih takes office on Saturday, seeking help from India and the United States to climb out from under a mountain of Chinese debt that his predecessor racked up in a breakneck development of the coral islands.

The surprise defeat of pro-China strongman Abdulla Yameen has opened a window for India, the strategic outpost's traditional political partner, to regain ground lost to Beijing in their tussle for regional dominance.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be the highest ranking visitor at the inauguration at the national soccer stadium in the capital Male. By contrast, China's highest-ranking attendee will be Culture and Tourism Minister Luo Shugang.

"I will convey to the new Maldivian government ... the desire of my government to work closely for realisation of their developmental priorities, especially in areas of infrastructure, health care, connectivity and human resource development," the Indian prime minister said in a post on Facebook.

Modi's presence signals the end of years of frosty relations because of Yameen's embrace of China, a relationship that had deepened India's anxieties about being encircled by countries leaning towards Beijing.

In Sri Lanka, an island nation to the southeast of India, the rivalry between New Delhi and Beijing has been one of the triggers for a political crisis in recent weeks.

"India-first"

The low-key Solih, a veteran lawmaker, has promised an "India first" policy in the Maldives, saying the small nation of a little over 400,000 people needs solid ties with its immediate neighbour.

His team is also reviewing millions of dollars of investments from China, as well as the related debt that the country has run up from Chinese lenders and how to restructure it. Solih has said investigations will be launched to find out what happened and fix accountability, Adam Azim, a member of his transition committee, told reporters on Thursday.

"We were led to believe it's about $1.5 billion, the Chinese debt, but it could be worse," said another member of Solih's top economic team, which has been holding discussions with finance ministry officials during the transition following the election in September.

He said the team had already reached out to India, the United States and Saudi Arabia for financial assistance so it could tackle the debt.

"We straightaway need 200-300 million dollars to kick-start the budgetary support," the adviser said.

Debt of $1.5 billion would be more than a quarter of the country's annual gross domestic product. Another member of the incoming president's economic team said firm proposals for assistance had been discussed with Indian and U.S. officials.

"Friendship"&nbsp;bridge

Signs of the infrastructure boom are everywhere in Male, from where tourists are whisked off in high speed boats to luxury resorts built on atolls in the turquoise waters.

Some 400 Chinese workers this year completed the mile-long China-Maldives Friendship Bridge, which towers over the city connecting the airport on one island to the capital on another.

The airport itself is undergoing expansion, with a second runway to accommodate the thousands of tourists who arrive each day.

The airport development is an especially sore point with India, after the Maldivian government cancelled a $511 million deal with India's GMR Infrastructure and later gave the contract to Beijing Urban Construction Group Company Limited.

The Yameen administration also threw open new islands and lagoons from the 1,192 islands that make up the necklace-shaped archipelago for development of resorts.

"There is such secrecy surrounding all these deals that it will take us weeks to figure out what went on," said Mariya Ahmad, an MP and spokeswoman for Solih.

Sensing an opportunity, India has told Solih's team it stands ready to help, Indian government officials in New Delhi and Maldivian authorities in Male said.

India had provided a $75 million credit line some years ago, of which a third had been utilised before the diplomatic chill set in with the previous administration, an Indian government official said.

There is also a currency swap agreement between the Reserve Bank of India and the Maldives Monetary Authority that could help maintain financial stability, the official said.

Modi, making his first visit since taking office in 2014, will hold talks with Solih before the inauguration.

India has had a long-standing defence cooperation agreement with the Maldives, providing coastal security and patrols of its exclusive economic zone. But Yameen saw such co-operation as a cover for surveillance and had asked India to withdraw two military helicopters along with 50 military personnel this year.

The Indians had refused and now officials in Delhi said they expected the visas of the personnel involved in the operations to be renewed.

"In keeping with its neighbourhood first policy, India looks forward to closely working with Maldives in further deepening the partnership," Indian foreign ministry spokesman Raveesh Kumar said.

A diplomatic source said the United States was also set to increase its engagement with the Maldives. Its relations had also become strained because of Yameen's crackdown on political rivals and supreme court justices.

But China remains a big player, given the investments by its state companies and as Chinese tourists pour in. That means the relationship is unlikely to completely unravel.

Between January to October this year, 247,911 Chinese tourists arrived, accounting for a fifth of all visitors. India, which is much closer geographically, provided just 5 per cent.

China's embassy did not respond to a request for comment about concerns that its projects had pushed the Maldives into financial difficulties. Soon after Solih's victory, Beijing had said it hoped the new government would maintain continuity in its policies and create good conditions for Chinese firms.

Maldives' President-elect Ibrahim Mohamed Solih takes office on Saturday, seeking help from India and the United States to climb out from under a mountain of Chinese debt that his predecessor racked up in a breakneck development of the coral islands.

Maldives' President-elect Ibrahim Mohamed Solih takes office on Saturday, seeking help from India and the United States to climb out from under a mountain of Chinese debt that his predecessor racked up in a breakneck development of the coral islands. The surprise defeat of pro-China strongman Abdulla Yameen has opened a window for India, the strategic outpost's traditional political partner, to regain ground lost to Beijing in their tussle for regional dominance. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be the highest ranking visitor at the inauguration at the national soccer stadium in the capital Male. By contrast, China's highest-ranking attendee will be Culture and Tourism Minister Luo Shugang. "I will convey to the new Maldivian government ... the desire of my government to work closely for realisation of their developmental priorities, especially in areas of infrastructure, health care, connectivity and human resource development," the Indian prime minister said in a post on Facebook. Modi's presence signals the end of years of frosty relations because of Yameen's embrace of China, a relationship that had deepened India's anxieties about being encircled by countries leaning towards Beijing. In Sri Lanka, an island nation to the southeast of India, the rivalry between New Delhi and Beijing has been one of the triggers for a political crisis in recent weeks. "India-first" The low-key Solih, a veteran lawmaker, has promised an "India first" policy in the Maldives, saying the small nation of a little over 400,000 people needs solid ties with its immediate neighbour. His team is also reviewing millions of dollars of investments from China, as well as the related debt that the country has run up from Chinese lenders and how to restructure it. Solih has said investigations will be launched to find out what happened and fix accountability, Adam Azim, a member of his transition committee, told reporters on Thursday. "We were led to believe it's about $1.5 billion, the Chinese debt, but it could be worse," said another member of Solih's top economic team, which has been holding discussions with finance ministry officials during the transition following the election in September. He said the team had already reached out to India, the United States and Saudi Arabia for financial assistance so it could tackle the debt. "We straightaway need 200-300 million dollars to kick-start the budgetary support," the adviser said. Debt of $1.5 billion would be more than a quarter of the country's annual gross domestic product. Another member of the incoming president's economic team said firm proposals for assistance had been discussed with Indian and U.S. officials. "Friendship" bridge Signs of the infrastructure boom are everywhere in Male, from where tourists are whisked off in high speed boats to luxury resorts built on atolls in the turquoise waters. Some 400 Chinese workers this year completed the mile-long China-Maldives Friendship Bridge, which towers over the city connecting the airport on one island to the capital on another. The airport itself is undergoing expansion, with a second runway to accommodate the thousands of tourists who arrive each day. The airport development is an especially sore point with India, after the Maldivian government cancelled a $511 million deal with India's GMR Infrastructure and later gave the contract to Beijing Urban Construction Group Company Limited. The Yameen administration also threw open new islands and lagoons from the 1,192 islands that make up the necklace-shaped archipelago for development of resorts. "There is such secrecy surrounding all these deals that it will take us weeks to figure out what went on," said Mariya Ahmad, an MP and spokeswoman for Solih. Sensing an opportunity, India has told Solih's team it stands ready to help, Indian government officials in New Delhi and Maldivian authorities in Male said. India had provided a $75 million credit line some years ago, of which a third had been utilised before the diplomatic chill set in with the previous administration, an Indian government official said. There is also a currency swap agreement between the Reserve Bank of India and the Maldives Monetary Authority that could help maintain financial stability, the official said. Modi, making his first visit since taking office in 2014, will hold talks with Solih before the inauguration. India has had a long-standing defence cooperation agreement with the Maldives, providing coastal security and patrols of its exclusive economic zone. But Yameen saw such co-operation as a cover for surveillance and had asked India to withdraw two military helicopters along with 50 military personnel this year. The Indians had refused and now officials in Delhi said they expected the visas of the personnel involved in the operations to be renewed. "In keeping with its neighbourhood first policy, India looks forward to closely working with Maldives in further deepening the partnership," Indian foreign ministry spokesman Raveesh Kumar said. A diplomatic source said the United States was also set to increase its engagement with the Maldives. Its relations had also become strained because of Yameen's crackdown on political rivals and supreme court justices. But China remains a big player, given the investments by its state companies and as Chinese tourists pour in. That means the relationship is unlikely to completely unravel. Between January to October this year, 247,911 Chinese tourists arrived, accounting for a fifth of all visitors. India, which is much closer geographically, provided just 5 per cent. China's embassy did not respond to a request for comment about concerns that its projects had pushed the Maldives into financial difficulties. Soon after Solih's victory, Beijing had said it hoped the new government would maintain continuity in its policies and create good conditions for Chinese firms.

PM Modi embraces Maldives as new leader Solih takes office

The Maldives top court suspended an arrest warrant for Mohamed Nasheed on Tuesday, paving the way for the country's first democratically elected president to return from exile next month.

The Supreme Court ruled Nasheed could not be detained by police or prison authorities until his appeal against his controversial 13 year jail sentence for terrorism is heard.

Nasheed has branded a fugitive from justice when he went into exile in 2016 after seeking medical treatment abroad.&nbsp;

He risked arrest if he ever returned to the Maldives under President Abdulla Yameen, who jailed or exiled most of his opponents.

But the strongman leader suffered a surprise defeat last month and vacates the top job on November 17.

"I will go to the Maldives on 1 November, come what may," Nasheed said at the start of October.

Nasheed, long de facto opposition leader from his base in Sri Lanka, had hoped to run against Yameen but was barred by the elections commission.

Instead an alternative candidate -- the little-known Ibrahim Mohamed Solih -- was fielded and won, despite Yameen stifling opposition campaigning.

Since then, political prisoners have been freed and exiles have returned from abroad as the Maldives prepares to transition to new leadership.

Elected president in the Maldives first democratic poll in 2008, Nasheed was found guilty of terrorism in 2015 in a trial the UN said was politically motivated.

He was sentenced to 13 years behind bars but went into exile after leaving the Maldives for hospital treatment.

His appeal against the sentence has languished before the courts for many years.

The Maldives top court suspended an arrest warrant for Mohamed Nasheed on Tuesday, paving the way for the country's first democratically elected president to return from exile next month.

The Maldives top court suspended an arrest warrant for Mohamed Nasheed on Tuesday, paving the way for the country's first democratically elected president to return from exile next month. The Supreme Court ruled Nasheed could not be detained by police or prison authorities until his appeal against his controversial 13 year jail sentence for terrorism is heard. Nasheed has branded a fugitive from justice when he went into exile in 2016 after seeking medical treatment abroad. He risked arrest if he ever returned to the Maldives under President Abdulla Yameen, who jailed or exiled most of his opponents. But the strongman leader suffered a surprise defeat last month and vacates the top job on November 17. "I will go to the Maldives on 1 November, come what may," Nasheed said at the start of October. Nasheed, long de facto opposition leader from his base in Sri Lanka, had hoped to run against Yameen but was barred by the elections commission. Instead an alternative candidate -- the little-known Ibrahim Mohamed Solih -- was fielded and won, despite Yameen stifling opposition campaigning. Since then, political prisoners have been freed and exiles have returned from abroad as the Maldives prepares to transition to new leadership. Elected president in the Maldives first democratic poll in 2008, Nasheed was found guilty of terrorism in 2015 in a trial the UN said was politically motivated. He was sentenced to 13 years behind bars but went into exile after leaving the Maldives for hospital treatment. His appeal against the sentence has languished before the courts for many years.

Court suspends arrest warrant of Maldives ex-leader Nasheed

India played a "positive" role in the restoration of democracy in the Maldives by "exerting pressure" on the ruling regime, and the new government in the island nation would be "sensitive" towards New Delhi's "concerns", former Maldivian President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom said Sunday.

Nearly a month after he was released from jail, Gayoom, who ruled the Maldives for three decades until 2008, said the government of President Abdulla Yameen inflicted "huge damage" on the Maldives but democratic forces have prevailed over their "enemies".

Joint opposition leader Ibrahim Mohamed Solih came out victorious in the September 23 presidential election, handing a shock defeat to incumbent Yameen and capping months of political upheaval in the tourist paradise. The political turmoil was triggered by the imposition of emergency in February and jailing of several of opposition leaders including Gayoom, a half-brother of Yameen.

Yameen had challenged the outcome of the elections, alleging the vote was rigged but the country's Supreme Court upheld the results. The transition of power is due on Nov 17.

"The last few years did erode the credibility of Maldivian constitutional bodies as well as the confidence of the Maldivian people in the state," 80-year-old Gayoom told PTI in an exclusive interview.

"However, the people have themselves taken remedial action as the election results have shown. There was huge damage done, but the constitution, the constitutional bodies and the citizen rights given by the constitution will be safe and strong under the new coalition government," he added.

Gayoom had ruled the Maldives for 30 years till he was defeated in the country's first multi-party elections in 2008. He was arrested in February as part of a crackdown on Yameen's political opponents.

Asked whether Yameen drew his strength from strong backing by China, Gayoom, credited with forging strong ties with India, hoped that China would respect the will of the Maldivian people.

"We value the support China has given for our development. However, we are concerned at the level of debt we have incurred in recent years, and feel this needs to be carefully reviewed and managed. I am sure that China would respect the will of the Maldivian people," he said in the e-mail interview.

Asked about India's role after imposition of emergency by Yameen in February, Gayoom said, "India did play a positive role, and along with other international partners, did exert pressure towards the restoration of democracy."

"Keeping the Maldivian issue alive in international fora did result in putting pressure on the Yameen regime," the former Maldivian strongman, who was released from jail on September 30 following orders of a court, said.

India's ties with the Maldives came under strain after Yameen declared Emergency in the country on February 5, following an order by the country's Supreme Court to release a group of Opposition leaders, who had been convicted in widely criticised trials. The Emergency was lifted 45 days later.

"I do not see the events of the last few years having a lasting impact (on bilateral ties)...I do not think these bumps and turbulence would impact decades of (our) India first policy," he said.

Describing India as the "closest and most trusted ally" of Maldives, he said it was in the interests of all of the Maldives' geographical neighbours that there is stability in the Indian Ocean region.

"I am confident that the new government will work towards achieving this. We will be sensitive towards the concerns of India as well as of other friends," he said, adding the Maldives was looking forward to welcoming Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the Maldives "very soon".

During the crisis, India had ignored calls for military intervention from the opposition parties in the island nation.

The influence of China on the Maldives, an island nation in the Indian Ocean, considered a backyard of India, has been growing and it is seen as a concern in New Delhi.

Talking about the post-election scenario, Gayoom said the first priority of the new government would be to unify the people of Maldives after the era of bitter politics

"Maldivians saw through attempts to muzzle democratic voice and defeated the forces who tried to undermine democracy and rule of law in the country," he said.

Asked about the transition of power, Gayoom said the Maldivian Supreme Court has clearly stated that there were no grounds for Yameen to question the results of the presidential elections.

"The road is now clear for a smooth transition. The coalition government is committed to peace, stability, progress and democracy," he said.

He also talked about his efforts to bring multi-party democracy to the Maldives in 2008 in sync with the aspirations of the people, adding the constitution had all the checks and balance that are required to safeguard democracy.

"It is indeed sad that these very checks and balance were abused to derail democracy to protect the vested interests of a few," he said.

"It is my hope that we learn from past mistakes and move beyond the blame game, and work together for the good of our citizens and country," he added.&nbsp;

India played a "positive" role in the restoration of democracy in the Maldives by "exerting pressure" on the ruling regime, and the new government in the island nation would be "sensitive" towards New Delhi's "concerns", former Maldivian President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom said Sunday.

India played a "positive" role in the restoration of democracy in the Maldives by "exerting pressure" on the ruling regime, and the new government in the island nation would be "sensitive" towards New Delhi's "concerns", former Maldivian President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom said Sunday. Nearly a month after he was released from jail, Gayoom, who ruled the Maldives for three decades until 2008, said the government of President Abdulla Yameen inflicted "huge damage" on the Maldives but democratic forces have prevailed over their "enemies". Joint opposition leader Ibrahim Mohamed Solih came out victorious in the September 23 presidential election, handing a shock defeat to incumbent Yameen and capping months of political upheaval in the tourist paradise. The political turmoil was triggered by the imposition of emergency in February and jailing of several of opposition leaders including Gayoom, a half-brother of Yameen. Yameen had challenged the outcome of the elections, alleging the vote was rigged but the country's Supreme Court upheld the results. The transition of power is due on Nov 17. "The last few years did erode the credibility of Maldivian constitutional bodies as well as the confidence of the Maldivian people in the state," 80-year-old Gayoom told PTI in an exclusive interview. "However, the people have themselves taken remedial action as the election results have shown. There was huge damage done, but the constitution, the constitutional bodies and the citizen rights given by the constitution will be safe and strong under the new coalition government," he added. Gayoom had ruled the Maldives for 30 years till he was defeated in the country's first multi-party elections in 2008. He was arrested in February as part of a crackdown on Yameen's political opponents. Asked whether Yameen drew his strength from strong backing by China, Gayoom, credited with forging strong ties with India, hoped that China would respect the will of the Maldivian people. "We value the support China has given for our development. However, we are concerned at the level of debt we have incurred in recent years, and feel this needs to be carefully reviewed and managed. I am sure that China would respect the will of the Maldivian people," he said in the e-mail interview. Asked about India's role after imposition of emergency by Yameen in February, Gayoom said, "India did play a positive role, and along with other international partners, did exert pressure towards the restoration of democracy." "Keeping the Maldivian issue alive in international fora did result in putting pressure on the Yameen regime," the former Maldivian strongman, who was released from jail on September 30 following orders of a court, said. India's ties with the Maldives came under strain after Yameen declared Emergency in the country on February 5, following an order by the country's Supreme Court to release a group of Opposition leaders, who had been convicted in widely criticised trials. The Emergency was lifted 45 days later. "I do not see the events of the last few years having a lasting impact (on bilateral ties)...I do not think these bumps and turbulence would impact decades of (our) India first policy," he said. Describing India as the "closest and most trusted ally" of Maldives, he said it was in the interests of all of the Maldives' geographical neighbours that there is stability in the Indian Ocean region. "I am confident that the new government will work towards achieving this. We will be sensitive towards the concerns of India as well as of other friends," he said, adding the Maldives was looking forward to welcoming Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the Maldives "very soon". During the crisis, India had ignored calls for military intervention from the opposition parties in the island nation. The influence of China on the Maldives, an island nation in the Indian Ocean, considered a backyard of India, has been growing and it is seen as a concern in New Delhi. Talking about the post-election scenario, Gayoom said the first priority of the new government would be to unify the people of Maldives after the era of bitter politics "Maldivians saw through attempts to muzzle democratic voice and defeated the forces who tried to undermine democracy and rule of law in the country," he said. Asked about the transition of power, Gayoom said the Maldivian Supreme Court has clearly stated that there were no grounds for Yameen to question the results of the presidential elections. "The road is now clear for a smooth transition. The coalition government is committed to peace, stability, progress and democracy," he said. He also talked about his efforts to bring multi-party democracy to the Maldives in 2008 in sync with the aspirations of the people, adding the constitution had all the checks and balance that are required to safeguard democracy. "It is indeed sad that these very checks and balance were abused to derail democracy to protect the vested interests of a few," he said. "It is my hope that we learn from past mistakes and move beyond the blame game, and work together for the good of our citizens and country," he added.

India helped in restoration of democracy in Maldives: Former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom

The Maldives opposition moved closer Wednesday to impeach the speaker of parliament, a staunch loyalist of outgoing strongman President Abdulla Yameen who was defeated in last month's election.&nbsp;

An alliance of opposition parties has collected signatures from 55 MPs, or roughly two-thirds of sitting lawmakers, for a petition to oust Abdulla Maseeh Mohamed.

The speaker has survived a number of impeachment motions since taking office in 2014 under Yameen, who ruled the Maldives with an iron-fist before losing to an opposition candidate on September 23.

Mohamed was one of Yameen's few remaining loyalists.&nbsp;

Parliamentary officials said the impeachment motion would be put to a vote on November 8, nine days before Yameen's term ends.

Yameen declared a state of emergency, suspended the constitution and ordered troops to storm parliament when Mohamed faced impeachment in February.

The president rounded up his opponents and jailed dissidents before lifting the emergency declaration 45 days later.

Yameen had challenged the election results in court, claiming the poll was rigged against him despite a threat of sanctions from abroad if he refused the will of the people.

But the Supreme Court rejected his petition at the weekend, upholding his landslide defeat to Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.

Yameen was elevated to power in a controversial run-off election in November 2013. He has crushed dissent and jailed or exiled virtually all his opposition.

The US and its allies have been concerned by growing Chinese influence in the strategically positioned Indian Ocean archipelago, especially under Yameen's authoritarian rule.'

The Maldives opposition moved closer Wednesday to impeach the speaker of parliament, a staunch loyalist of outgoing strongman President Abdulla Yameen who was defeated in last month's election.

The Maldives opposition moved closer Wednesday to impeach the speaker of parliament, a staunch loyalist of outgoing strongman President Abdulla Yameen who was defeated in last month's election. An alliance of opposition parties has collected signatures from 55 MPs, or roughly two-thirds of sitting lawmakers, for a petition to oust Abdulla Maseeh Mohamed. The speaker has survived a number of impeachment motions since taking office in 2014 under Yameen, who ruled the Maldives with an iron-fist before losing to an opposition candidate on September 23. Mohamed was one of Yameen's few remaining loyalists. Parliamentary officials said the impeachment motion would be put to a vote on November 8, nine days before Yameen's term ends. Yameen declared a state of emergency, suspended the constitution and ordered troops to storm parliament when Mohamed faced impeachment in February. The president rounded up his opponents and jailed dissidents before lifting the emergency declaration 45 days later. Yameen had challenged the election results in court, claiming the poll was rigged against him despite a threat of sanctions from abroad if he refused the will of the people. But the Supreme Court rejected his petition at the weekend, upholding his landslide defeat to Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. Yameen was elevated to power in a controversial run-off election in November 2013. He has crushed dissent and jailed or exiled virtually all his opposition. The US and its allies have been concerned by growing Chinese influence in the strategically positioned Indian Ocean archipelago, especially under Yameen's authoritarian rule.'

Maldives opposition moves closer to impeaching speaker

The Maldives Supreme Court on Sunday upheld the outgoing President Abdulla Yameen's defeat in the September's polls as it rejected a petition&nbsp;filed last week&nbsp;by his party.

On October 10, Yameen's Progressive Party of Maldives had filed a petition in the top court seeking annulment of the controversial poll result, alleging that vote was rigged by the independent election commission of the country.

Today, the five-judge Supreme Court bench unanimously ruled that Yameen had failed to prove his claim that the September 23 vote won by opposition candidate Ibrahim Mohamed Solih was rigged.

Yameen is due to hand over power on November 17.&nbsp;

Opposition leader Ibrahim Mohamed Solih won a surprise presidential election victory on September 23.

Results released by the electoral commission had shown Yameen's PPM on 41.7 per cent of the vote, well behind Solih on 58.3 per cent. Nearly 90 per cent of the 262,000 electorates turned out to vote during the election.

The results were hailed by India and the US as a victory for democratic forces.

In February Yameen had imposed a 45-day state of emergency cracking down on the Opposition and imprisoning the country's Chief Justice and Supreme Court judges. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Maldives Supreme Court on Sunday upheld the outgoing President Abdulla Yameen's defeat in the September's polls as it rejected a petition filed last week by his party.

The Maldives Supreme Court on Sunday upheld the outgoing President Abdulla Yameen's defeat in the September's polls as it rejected a petition filed last week by his party. On October 10, Yameen's Progressive Party of Maldives had filed a petition in the top court seeking annulment of the controversial poll result, alleging that vote was rigged by the independent election commission of the country. Today, the five-judge Supreme Court bench unanimously ruled that Yameen had failed to prove his claim that the September 23 vote won by opposition candidate Ibrahim Mohamed Solih was rigged. Yameen is due to hand over power on November 17. Opposition leader Ibrahim Mohamed Solih won a surprise presidential election victory on September 23. Results released by the electoral commission had shown Yameen's PPM on 41.7 per cent of the vote, well behind Solih on 58.3 per cent. Nearly 90 per cent of the 262,000 electorates turned out to vote during the election. The results were hailed by India and the US as a victory for democratic forces. In February Yameen had imposed a 45-day state of emergency cracking down on the Opposition and imprisoning the country's Chief Justice and Supreme Court judges.

Maldives Supreme Court upholds Abdulla Yameen's election defeat 

A Maldivian court overturned the 19-month jail term of Maumoon Abdul Gayoom on Thursday, a month after the former president's estranged half-brother and jailer suffered a shock election drubbing.

Gayoom, 80, ruled the largely Muslim island nation for 30 straight years until he was defeated at the country's first multi-party elections in 2008.&nbsp;

He was arrested in February and accused of participating in an alleged coup during a crackdown on rivals of strongman President Abdulla Yameen, in charges his family and observers said were politically-motivated.

Gayoom was granted bail at the end of September, a week after Yameen lost national elections that had been skewed heavily in his favour.

On Thursday a court in the capital Male quashed Gayoom's conviction for obstruction of justice -- a charge that arose when he refuse to hand over his mobile phone to police.

Gayoom is one of many political opponents and dissidents who were jailed or forced into exile during Yameen's strongman rule.&nbsp;

Mohamed Nasheed, the country's first democratically-elected president, was convicted on a terrorism charge and sentenced to 13 years in prison in 2015 after a trial characterised by Amnesty International as a "travesty of justice".&nbsp;

He obtained prison leave in 2016 to travel to London for medical treatment and has remained abroad since.

Former foes Nasheed and Gayoom teamed up before the election to back Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, a political neophyte who defeated Yameen in a landslide victory.

Yameen appeared on national television Wednesday to once again concede defeat in the last month's polls, despite mounting a court challenge to annul the results.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court is yet to deliver a verdict in the case, which hinges on Yameen's allegation that the election commission used invisible ink to understate his support on ballot papers.

He is due to step down on November 17.

A Maldivian court overturned the 19-month jail term of Maumoon Abdul Gayoom on Thursday, a month after the former president's estranged half-brother and jailer suffered a shock election drubbing.

A Maldivian court overturned the 19-month jail term of Maumoon Abdul Gayoom on Thursday, a month after the former president's estranged half-brother and jailer suffered a shock election drubbing. Gayoom, 80, ruled the largely Muslim island nation for 30 straight years until he was defeated at the country's first multi-party elections in 2008. He was arrested in February and accused of participating in an alleged coup during a crackdown on rivals of strongman President Abdulla Yameen, in charges his family and observers said were politically-motivated. Gayoom was granted bail at the end of September, a week after Yameen lost national elections that had been skewed heavily in his favour. On Thursday a court in the capital Male quashed Gayoom's conviction for obstruction of justice -- a charge that arose when he refuse to hand over his mobile phone to police. Gayoom is one of many political opponents and dissidents who were jailed or forced into exile during Yameen's strongman rule. Mohamed Nasheed, the country's first democratically-elected president, was convicted on a terrorism charge and sentenced to 13 years in prison in 2015 after a trial characterised by Amnesty International as a "travesty of justice". He obtained prison leave in 2016 to travel to London for medical treatment and has remained abroad since. Former foes Nasheed and Gayoom teamed up before the election to back Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, a political neophyte who defeated Yameen in a landslide victory. Yameen appeared on national television Wednesday to once again concede defeat in the last month's polls, despite mounting a court challenge to annul the results. The Supreme Court is yet to deliver a verdict in the case, which hinges on Yameen's allegation that the election commission used invisible ink to understate his support on ballot papers. He is due to step down on November 17.

Maldives court frees ex-leader Maumoon Abdul Gayoom

The party of the incoming president of the Maldives has urged police to impose a travel ban on outgoing President Abdulla Yameen so he can face investigations in connection with graft cases that the party aims to launch.

Opposition leader Ibrahim Mohamed Solih won a surprise presidential election victory on Sept. 23 and Yameen is due to hand over power on Nov. 17, even though he had petitioned the Supreme Court challenging his election defeat.

Yameen said on Wednesday he was preparing to step down.

The chairman of Solih's Maldives Democratic Party, Hassan Latheef, said Yameen would face inquiries related to the suspected misappropriation of funds at a state-owned agency that promotes the leasing of islands for resort development, in the first of several cases.

"A travel ban against President Yameen must be instituted. There are several cases pending investigation including cases of corruption," he told reporters after filing a petition before the police.

A police spokesman declined to comment, saying it was not the practice to say anything on such pending matters.

Yameen said in a speech on Wednesday he had done nothing wrong and had acted in the best interests of the country during his term as president.

The Maldives, a string of palm-fringed islands and atolls 325 miles (523 km) southwest of the southern tip of India, is best known as a luxury holiday destination.

But the Muslim nation of less than half a million people has suffered a turbulent transition to democracy following the end of three decades of authoritarian rule in 2008.

Its latest phase of turmoil began in February when Yameen imposed a state of emergency and several ministers and judges were detained on charges ranging from corruption to terrorism.

The islands have become more significant in recent years for both China and India as they seek to extend their influence over important Indian Ocean shipping lanes.

Solih had won the election on the promise of cleaning up corruption and would pursue cases vigorously, Latheef said.

The party of the incoming president of the Maldives has urged police to impose a travel ban on outgoing President Abdulla Yameen so he can face investigations in connection with graft cases that the party aims to launch.

The party of the incoming president of the Maldives has urged police to impose a travel ban on outgoing President Abdulla Yameen so he can face investigations in connection with graft cases that the party aims to launch. Opposition leader Ibrahim Mohamed Solih won a surprise presidential election victory on Sept. 23 and Yameen is due to hand over power on Nov. 17, even though he had petitioned the Supreme Court challenging his election defeat. Yameen said on Wednesday he was preparing to step down. The chairman of Solih's Maldives Democratic Party, Hassan Latheef, said Yameen would face inquiries related to the suspected misappropriation of funds at a state-owned agency that promotes the leasing of islands for resort development, in the first of several cases. "A travel ban against President Yameen must be instituted. There are several cases pending investigation including cases of corruption," he told reporters after filing a petition before the police. A police spokesman declined to comment, saying it was not the practice to say anything on such pending matters. Yameen said in a speech on Wednesday he had done nothing wrong and had acted in the best interests of the country during his term as president. The Maldives, a string of palm-fringed islands and atolls 325 miles (523 km) southwest of the southern tip of India, is best known as a luxury holiday destination. But the Muslim nation of less than half a million people has suffered a turbulent transition to democracy following the end of three decades of authoritarian rule in 2008. Its latest phase of turmoil began in February when Yameen imposed a state of emergency and several ministers and judges were detained on charges ranging from corruption to terrorism. The islands have become more significant in recent years for both China and India as they seek to extend their influence over important Indian Ocean shipping lanes. Solih had won the election on the promise of cleaning up corruption and would pursue cases vigorously, Latheef said.

Vote-winning Maldives party seeks travel ban on President Yameen

Outgoing Maldives President <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/maldives-judges-hear-strongmans-election-challenge-171447">Abdulla Yameen</a> said disappearing ink and specially treated ballot papers were to blame for his heavy election defeat last month.

The strongman leader of the honeymoon island nation had been expected to romp home in the September 23 poll, with opposition leaders jailed or exiled, and warnings that he would try to fix the vote.

But in a surprise turn of events, a little-known united opposition candidate, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, was declared the winner, sparking celebrations across the tropical holiday destination.

Yameen initially said he accepted defeat, and was ready to step down when his term ends on November 17. But last week he launched a Supreme Court challenge, seeking to annul the result.

At a hearing on Sunday which resumed Monday, Yameen's lawyer Mohamed Saleem accused the printer of coating ballot papers with an unnamed substance to make votes marked in Yameen's box vanish.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/maldives-judges-hear-strongmans-election-challenge-171467">Maldives opposition supporters protest as court reviews election challenge</a>

Saleem said a "special pen with disappearing ink" had been given to people who were going to vote for his client, a reporter at the hearing said.

A lawyer for the Elections Commission, which Yameen accused of colluding with the printer to ensure his defeat, on Sunday denied any wrongdoing, including using any special ink.

A day ahead of the court hearing in the capital Male, the United States warned "appropriate measures" would be taken if the will of the Maldivian people was undermined.

Europe and India have also issued similar warnings in the past.

The US and its allies have been concerned by growing Chinese influence in the strategically positioned Indian Ocean archipelago, especially under Yameen's authoritarian rule.

Yameen's Progressive Party (PPM) on Saturday said the vote was the "most farcical election in living memory" with the organisation "abysmal" and vote-rigging "rampant".

Outgoing Maldives President Abdulla Yameen said disappearing ink and specially treated ballot papers were to blame for his heavy election defeat last month. The strongman leader of the honeymoon island nation had been expected to romp home in the September 23 poll, with opposition leaders jailed or exiled, and warnings that he would try to fix the vote.

Outgoing Maldives President Abdulla Yameen said disappearing ink and specially treated ballot papers were to blame for his heavy election defeat last month. The strongman leader of the honeymoon island nation had been expected to romp home in the September 23 poll, with opposition leaders jailed or exiled, and warnings that he would try to fix the vote. But in a surprise turn of events, a little-known united opposition candidate, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, was declared the winner, sparking celebrations across the tropical holiday destination. Yameen initially said he accepted defeat, and was ready to step down when his term ends on November 17. But last week he launched a Supreme Court challenge, seeking to annul the result. At a hearing on Sunday which resumed Monday, Yameen's lawyer Mohamed Saleem accused the printer of coating ballot papers with an unnamed substance to make votes marked in Yameen's box vanish. Also read: Maldives opposition supporters protest as court reviews election challenge Saleem said a "special pen with disappearing ink" had been given to people who were going to vote for his client, a reporter at the hearing said. A lawyer for the Elections Commission, which Yameen accused of colluding with the printer to ensure his defeat, on Sunday denied any wrongdoing, including using any special ink. A day ahead of the court hearing in the capital Male, the United States warned "appropriate measures" would be taken if the will of the Maldivian people was undermined. Europe and India have also issued similar warnings in the past. The US and its allies have been concerned by growing Chinese influence in the strategically positioned Indian Ocean archipelago, especially under Yameen's authoritarian rule. Yameen's Progressive Party (PPM) on Saturday said the vote was the "most farcical election in living memory" with the organisation "abysmal" and vote-rigging "rampant".

Maldives President Yameen blames election defeat on 'disappearing ink'

Hundreds of Maldivians protested on Sunday demanding the arrest of defeated President Abdulla Yameen as its top court began to hear a petition challenging the outcome of last's month election in the island nation.

The tourist archipelago has been in political turmoil since February, when a state of emergency was imposed by Yameen, whose critics have accused him of running Maldives with an iron fist, jailing political opponents and Supreme Court judges.

"This is our right. They can't change it. They can't play around with the votes," Abidha Afeef, a 55-year old protester told Reuters. "Yameen has to go."

Yameen initially conceded defeat last month after an official count showed joint opposition leader Ibrahim Mohamed Solih had won the election by a margin of 16.8 per cent in a surprise result.

The Maldives Election Commission said the vote was free and fair, with turnout of 89.2 per cent. And the opposition has been trying to secure a smooth transition of power, due on November 17.

Last week, however, Yameen's lawyers approached the Supreme Court, saying supporters had complained about rigging of votes and fraudulent ballot papers.

Four members of the Election Commission have fled the island nation, due to alleged intimidation and threats, Reuters reported on Saturday. Yameen's party has dismissed the allegations.

The allegations from Commission officials follow some domestic media reports of a complaint to police by the company that printed the ballots. The complaint alleged Yameen's party attempted to bribe its workers to give false statements backing Yameen's challenge.

Yameen's party called the complaint "ludicrous", saying it was a tactic to divert attention from the court case.

The country of some 400,000 people is popular with tourists, and being located near key shipping lanes in the Indian Ocean it has become important as China and India compete for influence in the region.

China is engaged in building up the islands' infrastructure as part of its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) to boost trade and transport links across Asia.

Hundreds of Maldivians protested on Sunday demanding the arrest of defeated President Abdulla Yameen as its top court began to hear a petition challenging the outcome of last's month election in the island nation.

Hundreds of Maldivians protested on Sunday demanding the arrest of defeated President Abdulla Yameen as its top court began to hear a petition challenging the outcome of last's month election in the island nation. The tourist archipelago has been in political turmoil since February, when a state of emergency was imposed by Yameen, whose critics have accused him of running Maldives with an iron fist, jailing political opponents and Supreme Court judges. "This is our right. They can't change it. They can't play around with the votes," Abidha Afeef, a 55-year old protester told Reuters. "Yameen has to go." Yameen initially conceded defeat last month after an official count showed joint opposition leader Ibrahim Mohamed Solih had won the election by a margin of 16.8 per cent in a surprise result. The Maldives Election Commission said the vote was free and fair, with turnout of 89.2 per cent. And the opposition has been trying to secure a smooth transition of power, due on November 17. Last week, however, Yameen's lawyers approached the Supreme Court, saying supporters had complained about rigging of votes and fraudulent ballot papers. Four members of the Election Commission have fled the island nation, due to alleged intimidation and threats, Reuters reported on Saturday. Yameen's party has dismissed the allegations. The allegations from Commission officials follow some domestic media reports of a complaint to police by the company that printed the ballots. The complaint alleged Yameen's party attempted to bribe its workers to give false statements backing Yameen's challenge. Yameen's party called the complaint "ludicrous", saying it was a tactic to divert attention from the court case. The country of some 400,000 people is popular with tourists, and being located near key shipping lanes in the Indian Ocean it has become important as China and India compete for influence in the region. China is engaged in building up the islands' infrastructure as part of its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) to boost trade and transport links across Asia.

Maldives opposition supporters protest as court reviews election challenge

Maldives judges on Sunday heard a petition by strongman president Abdulla Yameen to have his recent election defeat annulled, potentially triggering US sanctions and plunging the archipelago into fresh turmoil.

Yameen lost heavily in the September 23 election to a little-known unity opposition candidate, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, despite his main rivals being in jail or in exile and the media in his pocket.

Under pressure from the US, Europe and India, which is seeking to counter growing Chinese influence in the strategically positioned 1,200-island honeymoon paradise, Yameen quickly conceded defeat and said he would leave office on November 17.

But even as Western countries breathed a sigh of relief, prisoners were released and opposition figures began returning from exile, Yameen last week filed a request for the Supreme Court to annul the result and call fresh elections.&nbsp;

A statement on Saturday by his Progressive Party (PPM) said the vote was the "most farcical election in living memory" with the organisation "abysmal", vote-rigging "rampant" and many people unable to cast ballots.

The United States -- which like the European Union threatened sanctions if the elections were not free and fair -- on Saturday warned it would react if Yameen, 59, does not go quietly.

"The US is concerned by troubling actions by outgoing president Yameen that threaten to undermine the will of the Maldivian people," State Department spokesman Robert Palladino said on Twitter.

He added that Washington "will consider appropriate measures against anyone who undermines a peaceful transfer of power in #Maldives".

The situation is not dissimilar to 2013 when Yameen, estranged half-brother of Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, who ruled the Maldives with an iron fist for 30 years until 2008, first became president.

Yameen's rival at the time Mohamed Nasheed, the country's first democratically elected president who is now in exile, beat him in the first round of elections but Yameen persuaded the Supreme Court to nullify the result.

A subsequent vote was then twice delayed, allowing Yameen time to forge alliances that helped him narrowly win a contested run-off.

'Blatantly unsubstantiated'

Dozens of people queued up outside the Supreme Court on Sunday to get inside several hours before the hearing began. It started with the court allowing all opposition parties to have their say.

Hamid Abdul Ghafoor, Colombo-based spokesman for the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), said the legal challenge was an attempt by Yameen to create turmoil.

The country's Joint Opposition, which includes the MDP, has asked Yameen to withdraw the "blatantly unsubstantiated case, and to step aside and to facilitate a peaceful, and smooth transition."

The opposition has also urged state institutions, including the courts and the security forces, to uphold the will of the people.

"Maldivians used the ballot to defeat the dictatorial regime. Yameen must not be allowed to perverse the hard-won opportunity for all Maldivians to attain meaningful democracy and stability," the Joint Opposition said in a statement at the weekend.

Apart from his political foes, in February Yameen jailed the chief justice and another Supreme Court judge after accusing them of trying to topple him.

Yameen had initially suspended the court, parliament and the constitution and declared a state of emergency when parliament was about to impeach him in February.

Three of the remaining Supreme Court justices have been restored, but the opposition has said they had no faith in the judiciary to deliver justice while Yameen remains in power.

However, several high profile political prisoners, including Gayoom have been released on bail since the election results were officially announced a week after the vote.

Yameen has since borrowed heavily from China under Beijing's Belt and Road initative for infrastructure projects that, like elsewhere around the Indian Ocean and beyond, have rattled India and Western countries.

The opposition has said it wants to renegotiate China's loans, although the experience of Sri Lanka, which last year leased to Beijing a new deep-sea port for 99 years, suggest this may not be easy.

Maldives judges on Sunday heard a petition by strongman president Abdulla Yameen to have his recent election defeat annulled, potentially triggering US sanctions and plunging the archipelago into fresh turmoil.

Maldives judges on Sunday heard a petition by strongman president Abdulla Yameen to have his recent election defeat annulled, potentially triggering US sanctions and plunging the archipelago into fresh turmoil. Yameen lost heavily in the September 23 election to a little-known unity opposition candidate, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, despite his main rivals being in jail or in exile and the media in his pocket. Under pressure from the US, Europe and India, which is seeking to counter growing Chinese influence in the strategically positioned 1,200-island honeymoon paradise, Yameen quickly conceded defeat and said he would leave office on November 17. But even as Western countries breathed a sigh of relief, prisoners were released and opposition figures began returning from exile, Yameen last week filed a request for the Supreme Court to annul the result and call fresh elections. A statement on Saturday by his Progressive Party (PPM) said the vote was the "most farcical election in living memory" with the organisation "abysmal", vote-rigging "rampant" and many people unable to cast ballots. The United States -- which like the European Union threatened sanctions if the elections were not free and fair -- on Saturday warned it would react if Yameen, 59, does not go quietly. "The US is concerned by troubling actions by outgoing president Yameen that threaten to undermine the will of the Maldivian people," State Department spokesman Robert Palladino said on Twitter. He added that Washington "will consider appropriate measures against anyone who undermines a peaceful transfer of power in #Maldives". The situation is not dissimilar to 2013 when Yameen, estranged half-brother of Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, who ruled the Maldives with an iron fist for 30 years until 2008, first became president. Yameen's rival at the time Mohamed Nasheed, the country's first democratically elected president who is now in exile, beat him in the first round of elections but Yameen persuaded the Supreme Court to nullify the result. A subsequent vote was then twice delayed, allowing Yameen time to forge alliances that helped him narrowly win a contested run-off. 'Blatantly unsubstantiated' Dozens of people queued up outside the Supreme Court on Sunday to get inside several hours before the hearing began. It started with the court allowing all opposition parties to have their say. Hamid Abdul Ghafoor, Colombo-based spokesman for the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), said the legal challenge was an attempt by Yameen to create turmoil. The country's Joint Opposition, which includes the MDP, has asked Yameen to withdraw the "blatantly unsubstantiated case, and to step aside and to facilitate a peaceful, and smooth transition." The opposition has also urged state institutions, including the courts and the security forces, to uphold the will of the people. "Maldivians used the ballot to defeat the dictatorial regime. Yameen must not be allowed to perverse the hard-won opportunity for all Maldivians to attain meaningful democracy and stability," the Joint Opposition said in a statement at the weekend. Apart from his political foes, in February Yameen jailed the chief justice and another Supreme Court judge after accusing them of trying to topple him. Yameen had initially suspended the court, parliament and the constitution and declared a state of emergency when parliament was about to impeach him in February. Three of the remaining Supreme Court justices have been restored, but the opposition has said they had no faith in the judiciary to deliver justice while Yameen remains in power. However, several high profile political prisoners, including Gayoom have been released on bail since the election results were officially announced a week after the vote. Yameen has since borrowed heavily from China under Beijing's Belt and Road initative for infrastructure projects that, like elsewhere around the Indian Ocean and beyond, have rattled India and Western countries. The opposition has said it wants to renegotiate China's loans, although the experience of Sri Lanka, which last year leased to Beijing a new deep-sea port for 99 years, suggest this may not be easy.

Maldives judges hear strongman Abdulla Yameen's election challenge

Intimidation and threats drove four members of an election panel in the Maldives to flee the island nation, two officials said on Saturday, a day before its top court hears defeated president Abdulla Yameen's challenge to his election loss last month.

The tourist paradise has been in political upheaval since February, when a state of emergency was imposed by Yameen, who ran the Indian Ocean islands with an iron hand, critics say, jailing political opponents and Supreme Court justices.

Since Yameen lost his bid for re-election, the opposition has been trying to secure a smooth transition of power, due on November 17.

Four members of the Maldives Elections Commission have fled and three are in the Sri Lankan capital of Colombo, leaving behind just one panel member, two of the Maldivian officials told Reuters on condition of anonymity.

"We left due to threats," said one, who asked not be identified, for fear of a risk to his life.

Yameen's party dismissed the threat accusations, saying the election officials left because of public outrage sparked by the leak of an audio recording about poll rigging.

"So they say," Mohamed Hussain Shareef, secretary general of the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM), told Reuters. "When in fact they left because of public outrage following a leaked audio about rigging. They are refusing to clarify."

The officials' accusations follow domestic media reports of a complaint to police by the company that printed the ballots, saying the PPM sought to bribe its employees to provide false statements that backed Yameen's challenge.

Yameen's party called the complaint "ludicrous", saying it was a tactic to divert attention from the court case.

Yameen conceded defeat in last month's election after an official count showed joint opposition leader Ibrahim Mohamed Solih had polled 16.8 per cent more votes in a surprise result.

The Election Commission said the vote had been free and fair, with turnout of 89.2 per cent.

But on Wednesday, his lawyers approached the Supreme Court, saying supporters had complained about rigging of votes and fraudulent ballot papers.

With its location near key shipping lanes, the Maldives has become important as China and India compete for regional influence.

China is building up the islands' infrastructure in its Belt and Road Initiative to boost trade and transport links across Asia.

Intimidation and threats drove four members of an election panel in the Maldives to flee the island nation, two officials said on Saturday, a day before its top court hears defeated president Abdulla Yameen's challenge to his election loss last month.

Intimidation and threats drove four members of an election panel in the Maldives to flee the island nation, two officials said on Saturday, a day before its top court hears defeated president Abdulla Yameen's challenge to his election loss last month. The tourist paradise has been in political upheaval since February, when a state of emergency was imposed by Yameen, who ran the Indian Ocean islands with an iron hand, critics say, jailing political opponents and Supreme Court justices. Since Yameen lost his bid for re-election, the opposition has been trying to secure a smooth transition of power, due on November 17. Four members of the Maldives Elections Commission have fled and three are in the Sri Lankan capital of Colombo, leaving behind just one panel member, two of the Maldivian officials told Reuters on condition of anonymity. "We left due to threats," said one, who asked not be identified, for fear of a risk to his life. Yameen's party dismissed the threat accusations, saying the election officials left because of public outrage sparked by the leak of an audio recording about poll rigging. "So they say," Mohamed Hussain Shareef, secretary general of the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM), told Reuters. "When in fact they left because of public outrage following a leaked audio about rigging. They are refusing to clarify." The officials' accusations follow domestic media reports of a complaint to police by the company that printed the ballots, saying the PPM sought to bribe its employees to provide false statements that backed Yameen's challenge. Yameen's party called the complaint "ludicrous", saying it was a tactic to divert attention from the court case. Yameen conceded defeat in last month's election after an official count showed joint opposition leader Ibrahim Mohamed Solih had polled 16.8 per cent more votes in a surprise result. The Election Commission said the vote had been free and fair, with turnout of 89.2 per cent. But on Wednesday, his lawyers approached the Supreme Court, saying supporters had complained about rigging of votes and fraudulent ballot papers. With its location near key shipping lanes, the Maldives has become important as China and India compete for regional influence. China is building up the islands' infrastructure in its Belt and Road Initiative to boost trade and transport links across Asia.

Four Maldives' election officials flee to Sri Lanka citing threats

A day after Maldives President <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/president-yameens-party-challenges-election-results-in-maldives-supreme-court-170671">Abdulla Yameen's party filed a petition in the Supreme Court </a>challenging his election defeat last month, the court has decided to hear the election challenge on Sunday.

"The Supreme Court has decided to accept the constitutional dispute filed by President Yameen and it would be heard," the court said on Twitter. It later said a hearing will be held on Sunday at 1:00 pm (0800 GMT).

Yameen had earlier accepted his defeat against Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. His U-turn came after the lawyers of Yameen's Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) alleged that the vote was rigged by the independent election commission of the country.

Results released by the electoral commission had shown Yameen's PPM on 41.7 per cent of the vote, well behind Solih on 58.3 per cent. Nearly 90 per cent of the 262,000 electorates turned out to vote during the election.

The United States and the European Union had threatened sanctions if the vote was not free and fair and if Yameen, 59, did not accept the result.

Yameen had earlier said he would hand over power on November 17 ensuring a smooth transition. But he has been publicly urging his supporters to challenge the results.

In the last election in 2013, the Maldives Supreme Court had annulled the vote giving Yameen time to put together an alliance and win the second round of voting against former president Mohamed Nasheed.

In February Yameen had imposed a 45-day state of emergency cracking down on the Opposition and imprisoning the country's Chief Justice and Supreme Court judges. &nbsp; &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A day after Maldives President Abdulla Yameen's party filed a petition in the Supreme Court challenging his election defeat last month, the court has decided to hear the election challenge on Sunday.

A day after Maldives President Abdulla Yameen's party filed a petition in the Supreme Court challenging his election defeat last month, the court has decided to hear the election challenge on Sunday. "The Supreme Court has decided to accept the constitutional dispute filed by President Yameen and it would be heard," the court said on Twitter. It later said a hearing will be held on Sunday at 1:00 pm (0800 GMT). Yameen had earlier accepted his defeat against Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. His U-turn came after the lawyers of Yameen's Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) alleged that the vote was rigged by the independent election commission of the country. Results released by the electoral commission had shown Yameen's PPM on 41.7 per cent of the vote, well behind Solih on 58.3 per cent. Nearly 90 per cent of the 262,000 electorates turned out to vote during the election. The United States and the European Union had threatened sanctions if the vote was not free and fair and if Yameen, 59, did not accept the result. Yameen had earlier said he would hand over power on November 17 ensuring a smooth transition. But he has been publicly urging his supporters to challenge the results. In the last election in 2013, the Maldives Supreme Court had annulled the vote giving Yameen time to put together an alliance and win the second round of voting against former president Mohamed Nasheed. In February Yameen had imposed a 45-day state of emergency cracking down on the Opposition and imprisoning the country's Chief Justice and Supreme Court judges. (With inputs from agencies)

Maldives court to hear election challenge on Sunday

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/president-yameens-party-challenges-election-results-in-maldives-supreme-court-170671">President Yameen's party challenges election results in Maldives Supreme Court</a>

Maldives President Abdulla Yameen's party today filed a petition in the Supreme Court challenging his election defeat last month. Yameen's U-turn comes after he conceded defeat to Ibrahim Mohamed Solih-led Opposition parties. Yameen had earlier said he had met Solih and congratulated him on his election victory.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/severe-cyclonic-storm-titli-to-hit-odisha-ap-coast-tomorrow-at-wind-speed-of-145-kmph-170648">Severe cyclonic storm '</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/severe-cyclonic-storm-titli-to-hit-odisha-ap-coast-tomorrow-at-wind-speed-of-145-kmph-170648">Titli</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/severe-cyclonic-storm-titli-to-hit-odisha-ap-coast-tomorrow-at-wind-speed-of-145-kmph-170648">' to hit Odisha-Andhra Pradesh coast tomorrow at </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/severe-cyclonic-storm-titli-to-hit-odisha-ap-coast-tomorrow-at-wind-speed-of-145-kmph-170648">wind</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/severe-cyclonic-storm-titli-to-hit-odisha-ap-coast-tomorrow-at-wind-speed-of-145-kmph-170648"> speed of 145 </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/severe-cyclonic-storm-titli-to-hit-odisha-ap-coast-tomorrow-at-wind-speed-of-145-kmph-170648">kmph</a>

Cyclone 'Titli' over the Bay of Bengal intensified into a severe cyclonic storm Wednesday and is moving towards the Odisha-Andhra Pradesh coast, triggering rainfall in several parts of Odisha, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-journalist-was-killed-by-15-man-hit-team-that-then-dismembered-his-body-with-bone-saw-nyt-170659">Journalist Khashoggi was killed by Saudi 'hit team' that then dismembered his body with </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-journalist-was-killed-by-15-man-hit-team-that-then-dismembered-his-body-with-bone-saw-nyt-170659">bone</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-journalist-was-killed-by-15-man-hit-team-that-then-dismembered-his-body-with-bone-saw-nyt-170659"> saw: NYT</a>

The prominent Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi entered the Saudi Arabian consulate in Istanbul, for some routine paperwok, on October 2 a little before 1.15 pm.&nbsp;His girlfriend, who was waiting for him outside, says he never came out.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imf-warns-pakistan-against-excessive-loans-from-china-170672">IMF warns Pakistan against ‘excessive loans’ from China</a>

Pakistan has not yet formally approached the International Monetary Fund for financial assistance, but if bailout talks get underway this week, the goal will be to help Pakistan reach its full potential, the IMF’s chief economist said on Tuesday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/eight-dead-in-majorca-flash-flooding-170676">Eight dead in Spain's Majorca flash flooding</a>

At least eight people have died, including two British nationals, and several others are missing in flash floods on the Spanish holiday island of Majorca, authorities and emergency services said Wednesday.

&nbsp;

President Yameen's party challenges election results in Maldives Supreme Court Maldives President Abdulla Yameen's party today filed a petition in the Supreme Court challenging his election defeat last month.

President Yameen's party challenges election results in Maldives Supreme Court Maldives President Abdulla Yameen's party today filed a petition in the Supreme Court challenging his election defeat last month. Yameen's U-turn comes after he conceded defeat to Ibrahim Mohamed Solih-led Opposition parties. Yameen had earlier said he had met Solih and congratulated him on his election victory. Severe cyclonic storm 'Titli' to hit Odisha-Andhra Pradesh coast tomorrow at wind speed of 145 kmph Cyclone 'Titli' over the Bay of Bengal intensified into a severe cyclonic storm Wednesday and is moving towards the Odisha-Andhra Pradesh coast, triggering rainfall in several parts of Odisha, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said. Journalist Khashoggi was killed by Saudi 'hit team' that then dismembered his body with bone saw: NYT The prominent Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi entered the Saudi Arabian consulate in Istanbul, for some routine paperwok, on October 2 a little before 1.15 pm. His girlfriend, who was waiting for him outside, says he never came out. IMF warns Pakistan against ‘excessive loans’ from China Pakistan has not yet formally approached the International Monetary Fund for financial assistance, but if bailout talks get underway this week, the goal will be to help Pakistan reach its full potential, the IMF’s chief economist said on Tuesday. Eight dead in Spain's Majorca flash flooding At least eight people have died, including two British nationals, and several others are missing in flash floods on the Spanish holiday island of Majorca, authorities and emergency services said Wednesday.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The outgoing strongman president of the Maldives, Abdulla Yameen, faced allegations Tuesday that he received nearly $1.5 million in illicit payments just before his surprise election defeat last month.

The allegations that two cash deposits were made into a private account in Yameen's name came to light after local media reported that the Maldivian Monetary Authority (MMA) had lodged a police complaint.

Yameen's spokesman Ibrahim Muaz Ali denied any wrongdoing, saying that Yameen maintained a separate account to receive election campaign funding. He did not confirm or deny the amount of any deposits received.

Muaz said the governor of the MMA had assured the president that there was no wrongdoing and that the bank's Financial Intelligence Unit had withdrawn their complaint to the police.

"President Yameen assures the people that his campaign had been conducted in accordance with the relevant laws and regulations," Muaz said, adding that no campaign funds had been received from abroad.

Yameen relied heavily on China for political and financial support in the nation of 340,000 Sunni Muslims, triggering concern in India, which has long been influential in the Maldivian politics and the economy.

Beijing has been competing with New Delhi for influence in the region.&nbsp;

In neighbouring Sri Lanka, police are investigating allegations that former president Mahinda Rajapakse received millions of dollars in campaign funds from a Chinese state owned company in 2015.

Just before the Maldives' September 23 election, a corruption watchdog alleged that Yameen accepted lavish gifts from a billionaire developer who was later leased two islands in the paradise archipelago without bidding for them.

Yameen, whose five-year tenure was marked by the jailing of all his key rivals, has denied any involvement in the alleged island-leasing scam, which first came to light in a 2016 investigation by the Al Jazeera television channel.

The main opposition candidate, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, who defeated Yameen in last month’s election, has asked him to ensure a smooth transition when he is due to take over on November 17. 
&nbsp;

The outgoing strongman president of the Maldives, Abdulla Yameen, faced allegations Tuesday that he received nearly $1.5 million in illicit payments just before his surprise election defeat last month.

The outgoing strongman president of the Maldives, Abdulla Yameen, faced allegations Tuesday that he received nearly $1.5 million in illicit payments just before his surprise election defeat last month. The allegations that two cash deposits were made into a private account in Yameen's name came to light after local media reported that the Maldivian Monetary Authority (MMA) had lodged a police complaint. Yameen's spokesman Ibrahim Muaz Ali denied any wrongdoing, saying that Yameen maintained a separate account to receive election campaign funding. He did not confirm or deny the amount of any deposits received. Muaz said the governor of the MMA had assured the president that there was no wrongdoing and that the bank's Financial Intelligence Unit had withdrawn their complaint to the police. "President Yameen assures the people that his campaign had been conducted in accordance with the relevant laws and regulations," Muaz said, adding that no campaign funds had been received from abroad. Yameen relied heavily on China for political and financial support in the nation of 340,000 Sunni Muslims, triggering concern in India, which has long been influential in the Maldivian politics and the economy. Beijing has been competing with New Delhi for influence in the region. In neighbouring Sri Lanka, police are investigating allegations that former president Mahinda Rajapakse received millions of dollars in campaign funds from a Chinese state owned company in 2015. Just before the Maldives' September 23 election, a corruption watchdog alleged that Yameen accepted lavish gifts from a billionaire developer who was later leased two islands in the paradise archipelago without bidding for them. Yameen, whose five-year tenure was marked by the jailing of all his key rivals, has denied any involvement in the alleged island-leasing scam, which first came to light in a 2016 investigation by the Al Jazeera television channel. The main opposition candidate, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, who defeated Yameen in last month’s election, has asked him to ensure a smooth transition when he is due to take over on November 17.

Maldives strongman leader Abdulla Yameen 'received $1.5 million': Report

A week afterlosing the elctions, Maldives President Abdulla Yameen called for nationwide protests over alleged vote rigging until the Elecion Commission addresses the situation, reports said.

Results from Sunday's election released by the electoral commission showed Yameen on 41.7 per cent of the vote, well behind Solih on 58.3 per cent -- the only other name on ballot papers.&nbsp;

There had been concerns at home and abroad that Yameen might not accept the outcome. He had borrowed hundreds of millions of dollars from China for an infrastructure blitz, to the alarm of the Maldives' traditional backer India.

The result was a major surprise, with Yameen's main political rivals either in prison or in exile, media coverage of the opposition sparse and monitors and the opposition predicting the vote would be rigged.

At two press briefings earlier in the day, Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) lawmakers called on the electoral body to address concerns and demanded answers.

But neither the president nor the lawmakers made any specific allegations about electoral fraud or vote rigging.

The president reportedly suggested rings were used.

Meanwhile, an anti-money laundering body in the Maldives has informed police that President Abdulla Yameen received 22.5 million Maldivian rufiyaa ($1.5m) in hard currency days in advance of a contentious presidential election in the Indian Ocean island nation.

As per Al Jazeera the president received the money in two instalments to a private bank account at the Maldives Islamic Bank.

The document from the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), an agency under the Maldives' central bank, was dated September 13 and was addressed to Acting Commissioner of Police Abdulla Nawaz.

In the letter, the FIU said a third party deposited US $648,508 in hard currency into the president's account on September 5. Another US $810,635 was deposited to the same account on September 10.&nbsp;

A week afterlosing the elctions, Maldives President Abdulla Yameen called for nationwide protests over alleged vote rigging until the Elecion Commission addresses the situation, reports said.

A week afterlosing the elctions, Maldives President Abdulla Yameen called for nationwide protests over alleged vote rigging until the Elecion Commission addresses the situation, reports said. Results from Sunday's election released by the electoral commission showed Yameen on 41.7 per cent of the vote, well behind Solih on 58.3 per cent -- the only other name on ballot papers. There had been concerns at home and abroad that Yameen might not accept the outcome. He had borrowed hundreds of millions of dollars from China for an infrastructure blitz, to the alarm of the Maldives' traditional backer India. The result was a major surprise, with Yameen's main political rivals either in prison or in exile, media coverage of the opposition sparse and monitors and the opposition predicting the vote would be rigged. At two press briefings earlier in the day, Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) lawmakers called on the electoral body to address concerns and demanded answers. But neither the president nor the lawmakers made any specific allegations about electoral fraud or vote rigging. The president reportedly suggested rings were used. Meanwhile, an anti-money laundering body in the Maldives has informed police that President Abdulla Yameen received 22.5 million Maldivian rufiyaa ($1.5m) in hard currency days in advance of a contentious presidential election in the Indian Ocean island nation. As per Al Jazeera the president received the money in two instalments to a private bank account at the Maldives Islamic Bank. The document from the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), an agency under the Maldives' central bank, was dated September 13 and was addressed to Acting Commissioner of Police Abdulla Nawaz. In the letter, the FIU said a third party deposited US $648,508 in hard currency into the president's account on September 5. Another US $810,635 was deposited to the same account on September 10.

Maldives president calls for protests over alleged vote rigging

A Maldivian court Sunday granted bail to jailed former president Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, the country's longest-serving leader, a week after his estranged half-brother was defeated at a presidential election.

Gayoom, 80, and his legislator son Faris Maumoon were released by the High Court in Male after they mounted fresh appeals against their controversial convictions.

The release followed appeals from President-elect Ibrahim Mohamed Solih who urged incumbent Abdulla Yameen to free all political prisoners in the tourist paradise atoll nation after his stunning victory at the September 23 election.

Gayoom had ruled the nation of 340,000 Sunni Muslims for 30 straight years till he was defeated at the country's first multi-party elections in 2008.

He helped his half-brother Yameen win a controversial run-off election in 2013, but they later fell out and became bitter foes.

Gayoom was arrested in February along with the country's Chief Justice and another Supreme Court justice on a charge of attempting to topple Yameen. He declared a 45-day state of emergency to block impeachment.

The country's elder leader was serving a 19-month jail term for obstruction of justice and was also under trial on a "terrorism" charge.

Another Maldivian dissident, Qasim Ibrahim, was also granted bail. Soon after his defeat, Yameen freed five other political prisoners but was delaying the release of his half-brother who could have made a claim to the leadership of his PPM party.

Yameen had jailed or exiled most of his rivals during a turbulent five-year term that will come to an end on November 17 when Solih will be sworn in.

A Maldivian court Sunday granted bail to jailed former president Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, the country's longest-serving leader, a week after his estranged half-brother was defeated at a presidential election.

A Maldivian court Sunday granted bail to jailed former president Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, the country's longest-serving leader, a week after his estranged half-brother was defeated at a presidential election. Gayoom, 80, and his legislator son Faris Maumoon were released by the High Court in Male after they mounted fresh appeals against their controversial convictions. The release followed appeals from President-elect Ibrahim Mohamed Solih who urged incumbent Abdulla Yameen to free all political prisoners in the tourist paradise atoll nation after his stunning victory at the September 23 election. Gayoom had ruled the nation of 340,000 Sunni Muslims for 30 straight years till he was defeated at the country's first multi-party elections in 2008. He helped his half-brother Yameen win a controversial run-off election in 2013, but they later fell out and became bitter foes. Gayoom was arrested in February along with the country's Chief Justice and another Supreme Court justice on a charge of attempting to topple Yameen. He declared a 45-day state of emergency to block impeachment. The country's elder leader was serving a 19-month jail term for obstruction of justice and was also under trial on a "terrorism" charge. Another Maldivian dissident, Qasim Ibrahim, was also granted bail. Soon after his defeat, Yameen freed five other political prisoners but was delaying the release of his half-brother who could have made a claim to the leadership of his PPM party. Yameen had jailed or exiled most of his rivals during a turbulent five-year term that will come to an end on November 17 when Solih will be sworn in.

Former Maldives president Abdul Gayoom freed on bail: Official

The Maldivian opposition appealed to the international community Thursday to help ensure a peaceful transition of power amid fears that strongman Abdulla Yameen may cling onto power despite his shock election defeat.

The joint opposition, which includes four political parties that successfully put forward the little-known Ibrahim Mohamed Solih at Sunday's vote, called for external help to re-establish democracy in the tiny Indian Ocean archipelago.

"In this regard, we look towards our friends and partners in the international community to assist us, as we move forward in trying to create a Maldives in which all citizens can enjoy peace, prosperity and justice," the opposition said in a statement.

It did not say what form of assistance was requested, but opposition sources said they were looking for strong foreign warnings to Yameen to go quietly.

The statement came hours after the country's military chief and the head of police issued veiled warnings on television against Yameen trying to cling onto power.

Yameen decisively lost Sunday's election, despite all his main rivals being in prison or in exile, sparse media coverage of the opposition, and monitors and the opposition predicting vote-rigging.

Formal results will be announced by the election commission on Sunday and Yameen -- who on Monday conceded defeat -- must hand over power to successor Solih on November 17 at the end of his five-year term.

But rumours have abounded on social media and elsewhere that Yameen could file an election petition seeking the delay of the announcement.

This prompted military chief Major General Ahmed Shiyam to appear on a private TV channel on Wednesday night promising the results would be honoured.

"The people have spoken," Shiyam said. "I want to assure the Maldivian people that the military will protect the will of the people."

Election commission chief Ahmed Shareef confirmed that Yameen's party has lodged several complaints of suspected voting irregularities.

"We will look into these concerns," Shareef said.

But he added that there were no grounds for him to delay the announcement of the formal results.

On Wednesday, the opposition accused Yameen of delaying the release of high-profile political prisoners despite calls by Solih for their release.

Shortly after his shock defeat, Yameen freed five prisoners.

But scores of others -- including Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, his estranged half-brother and former president &nbsp;-- remain incarcerated.

There was no immediate comment from the government.

Yameen jailed or exiled most of his rivals during his turbulent five-year term.

The Maldivian opposition appealed to the international community Thursday to help ensure a peaceful transition of power amid fears that strongman Abdulla Yameen may cling onto power despite his shock election defeat.

The Maldivian opposition appealed to the international community Thursday to help ensure a peaceful transition of power amid fears that strongman Abdulla Yameen may cling onto power despite his shock election defeat. The joint opposition, which includes four political parties that successfully put forward the little-known Ibrahim Mohamed Solih at Sunday's vote, called for external help to re-establish democracy in the tiny Indian Ocean archipelago. "In this regard, we look towards our friends and partners in the international community to assist us, as we move forward in trying to create a Maldives in which all citizens can enjoy peace, prosperity and justice," the opposition said in a statement. It did not say what form of assistance was requested, but opposition sources said they were looking for strong foreign warnings to Yameen to go quietly. The statement came hours after the country's military chief and the head of police issued veiled warnings on television against Yameen trying to cling onto power. Yameen decisively lost Sunday's election, despite all his main rivals being in prison or in exile, sparse media coverage of the opposition, and monitors and the opposition predicting vote-rigging. Formal results will be announced by the election commission on Sunday and Yameen -- who on Monday conceded defeat -- must hand over power to successor Solih on November 17 at the end of his five-year term. But rumours have abounded on social media and elsewhere that Yameen could file an election petition seeking the delay of the announcement. This prompted military chief Major General Ahmed Shiyam to appear on a private TV channel on Wednesday night promising the results would be honoured. "The people have spoken," Shiyam said. "I want to assure the Maldivian people that the military will protect the will of the people." Election commission chief Ahmed Shareef confirmed that Yameen's party has lodged several complaints of suspected voting irregularities. "We will look into these concerns," Shareef said. But he added that there were no grounds for him to delay the announcement of the formal results. On Wednesday, the opposition accused Yameen of delaying the release of high-profile political prisoners despite calls by Solih for their release. Shortly after his shock defeat, Yameen freed five prisoners. But scores of others -- including Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, his estranged half-brother and former president -- remain incarcerated. There was no immediate comment from the government. Yameen jailed or exiled most of his rivals during his turbulent five-year term.

Maldives opposition seeks foreign help for transition

Dunya Maumoon, the daughter of former Maldivian President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, urged the newly-elected government to release her father on the medical ground.

Dunya tweeted, "Good to see you today Bappa @maumoonagayoom &amp; my brother @afarismaumoon. I urge the Home Minister @AzleenAhmed to comply with the recommendation of the medical board and move my father home immediately! #Fatherofthenation."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Good to see you today Bappa <a href="https://twitter.com/maumoonagayoom?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@maumoonagayoom</a> &amp; my brother <a href="https://twitter.com/afarismaumoon?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@afarismaumoon</a>. I urge the Home Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/AzleenAhmed?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AzleenAhmed</a> to comply with the recommendation of the medical board and move my father home immediately! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Fatherofthenation?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Fatherofthenation</a> <a href="https://t.co/iLIXheNKpZ">pic.twitter.com/iLIXheNKpZ</a>
— Dunya Maumoon (@dunyamaumoon) <a href="https://twitter.com/dunyamaumoon/status/1045320567753076736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Gayoom is lodged in Maafushi prison and his health has been deteriorating. The 83-year-old was convicted and sentenced for 19 years in June.

The trial was widely seen as a part of a plan of former President Abdulla Yameen to tighten his grip on power ahead of presidential elections on September 24.

Yameen, however, lost the elections to the opposition candidate Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.

Dunya Maumoon, the daughter of former Maldivian President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, urged the newly-elected government to release her father on the medical ground. Dunya tweeted, "Good to see you today Bappa @maumoonagayoom & my brother @afarismaumoon.

Dunya Maumoon, the daughter of former Maldivian President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, urged the newly-elected government to release her father on the medical ground. Dunya tweeted, "Good to see you today Bappa @maumoonagayoom & my brother @afarismaumoon. I urge the Home Minister @AzleenAhmed to comply with the recommendation of the medical board and move my father home immediately! #Fatherofthenation." Good to see you today Bappa @maumoonagayoom & my brother @afarismaumoon. I urge the Home Minister @AzleenAhmed to comply with the recommendation of the medical board and move my father home immediately! #Fatherofthenation pic.twitter.com/iLIXheNKpZ — Dunya Maumoon (@dunyamaumoon) September 27, 2018 × Gayoom is lodged in Maafushi prison and his health has been deteriorating. The 83-year-old was convicted and sentenced for 19 years in June. The trial was widely seen as a part of a plan of former President Abdulla Yameen to tighten his grip on power ahead of presidential elections on September 24. Yameen, however, lost the elections to the opposition candidate Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.

Dunya urges Maldivian Govt to release father Maumoon Gayoom

The police and military in the Maldives said on Wednesday they will uphold the result of an election in which opposition leader Ibrahim Mohamed Solih beat President Abdulla Yameen.

The statements, which boost Solih, come after Yameen's party requested a delay in the publication of final results.

Yameen conceded defeat on Monday, a day after the election commission said he lost by more than 16 percentage points.

Opposition leader Solih won Sunday's vote by more than 16 per cent. Yameen, who will be president until November 17 according to the constitution, has jailed political opponents and cracked down on dissent.

Three sources close to Solih told Reuters the request from Yameen's Progressive Party of the Maldives (PPM) to have the official result delayed beyond the September 30 deadline could be an attempt to have the election result annulled.

"PPM has raised some concerns and asked the commission to delay the announcement of the official results," Elections Commission chief Ahmed Shareef said.

Shareef said the deadline for issuing final results was Sunday and the Commission had not decided on the PPM request. "The Commission has not been briefed on the nature of the complaints yet but there are allegations of fraud from what I understand," he said.

"I do not see any complaint that would affect the outcome of the election but we will have to see what the complaint is," he said. Officials from Yameen's PPM did not respond to requests for comment.

In response, the military and police forces said in near-identical statements they would uphold the result.

"We were worried but now we feel comfortable (because the) security forces are going to stand with the will of the people," said Ahmed Mahloof, a spokesman for Solih's coalition.

PPM spokesman Ahmed Nihan told Reuters it had not requested a delay or decided to challenge the results in court, while spokesmen for the high court and the supreme court said they had not received requests from the PPM to delay results.

The Maldives is best known as a luxury holiday destination and is key to a battle for influence between India and China.

It has faced political upheaval since February when Yameen imposed a state of emergency to annul a Supreme Court ruling that quashed the convictions of nine opposition leaders, including former president Mohamed Nasheed, the country's first democratically elected leader.

The police and military in the Maldives said on Wednesday they will uphold the result of an election in which opposition leader Ibrahim Mohamed Solih beat President Abdulla Yameen.

The police and military in the Maldives said on Wednesday they will uphold the result of an election in which opposition leader Ibrahim Mohamed Solih beat President Abdulla Yameen. The statements, which boost Solih, come after Yameen's party requested a delay in the publication of final results. Yameen conceded defeat on Monday, a day after the election commission said he lost by more than 16 percentage points. Opposition leader Solih won Sunday's vote by more than 16 per cent. Yameen, who will be president until November 17 according to the constitution, has jailed political opponents and cracked down on dissent. Three sources close to Solih told Reuters the request from Yameen's Progressive Party of the Maldives (PPM) to have the official result delayed beyond the September 30 deadline could be an attempt to have the election result annulled. "PPM has raised some concerns and asked the commission to delay the announcement of the official results," Elections Commission chief Ahmed Shareef said. Shareef said the deadline for issuing final results was Sunday and the Commission had not decided on the PPM request. "The Commission has not been briefed on the nature of the complaints yet but there are allegations of fraud from what I understand," he said. "I do not see any complaint that would affect the outcome of the election but we will have to see what the complaint is," he said. Officials from Yameen's PPM did not respond to requests for comment. In response, the military and police forces said in near-identical statements they would uphold the result. "We were worried but now we feel comfortable (because the) security forces are going to stand with the will of the people," said Ahmed Mahloof, a spokesman for Solih's coalition. PPM spokesman Ahmed Nihan told Reuters it had not requested a delay or decided to challenge the results in court, while spokesmen for the high court and the supreme court said they had not received requests from the PPM to delay results. The Maldives is best known as a luxury holiday destination and is key to a battle for influence between India and China. It has faced political upheaval since February when Yameen imposed a state of emergency to annul a Supreme Court ruling that quashed the convictions of nine opposition leaders, including former president Mohamed Nasheed, the country's first democratically elected leader.

Maldives police and military say will uphold vote result

The party of defeated Maldives'&nbsp;President Abdulla Yameen has requested a delay in the publication of the final results for an election for which Yameen conceded defeat on Monday, Elections Commission chief Ahmed Shareef said on Wednesday.&nbsp;

"PPM (Progressive Party of Maldives) has raised some concerns and asked the commission to delay the announcement of the official results," Shareef told Reuters.&nbsp;

Shareef said the "lawful deadline" for issuing final results was Sunday and the Commission had not yet decided on the PPM`s request. "The Commission has not been briefed on the nature of the complaints yet, but there are allegations of fraud from what I understand," he said.

The party of defeated Maldives' President Abdulla Yameen has requested a delay in the publication of the final results for an election for which Yameen conceded defeat on Monday, Elections Commission chief Ahmed Shareef said on Wednesday.

The party of defeated Maldives' President Abdulla Yameen has requested a delay in the publication of the final results for an election for which Yameen conceded defeat on Monday, Elections Commission chief Ahmed Shareef said on Wednesday. "PPM (Progressive Party of Maldives) has raised some concerns and asked the commission to delay the announcement of the official results," Shareef told Reuters. Shareef said the "lawful deadline" for issuing final results was Sunday and the Commission had not yet decided on the PPM`s request. "The Commission has not been briefed on the nature of the complaints yet, but there are allegations of fraud from what I understand," he said.

Defeated Maldives leader Yameen's party asks to delay final vote results

The recent transition of power in the Maldives is expected to transform the relationship between India and the Indian Ocean archipelago nation.

Maldives which was initially dependent on India for its security and trade moved towards China&nbsp;since 2013 after&nbsp;Abdulla Yameen took to power.

Since then the island country had received significant grants and loan from China's Belt and Road Initiative.

Maldives also utilised the funds that it had received from China in advancing the international airport in the capital of Male and a bridge connecting the airport to town.

The Chinese investment in the Maldives is seen as part of its "String of Pearls" strategy, developing a network of friendly ports in the region from Sri Lanka to Pakistan.

Before the election, the opposition said it would review Chinese investment, partly out of concern over terms, as experts have warned that the Maldives risked falling into a debt trap.

Maldives failure in paying off the debts may throw the country in a serious debt trap as it may have to face adverse consequence just like Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka had to sell off a majority of its stake in the Hambantota port to China after it failed to pay off the debts.

While new power in the Maldives seems to have an inclination towards India, Maldives may not ignore China due to its unparalleled funding which India can certainly not match.

A media report quoted Alyssa Ayres, a senior South Asia fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations as saying that as&nbsp;Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's pro-democracy government is more politically aligned with New Delhi, he is likely to repair ties with India and "veer back to the more traditional close regional partnership".

Veteran Maldives lawmaker Ibrahim Mohamed Solih overcame the detention and exile of key opposition figures to win a weekend presidential poll and unseat incumbent Abdulla Yameen

The victory of Solih, who is known as a reformer, dislodges Yameen, a hardliner who had cultivated ties with both Beijing and Saudi Arabia, and cracked down on threats to his rule, even jailing his own half-brother, Maumoon Abdul Gayoom.

(With inputs from agencies)

The recent transition of power in the Maldives is expected to transform the relationship between India and the Indian Ocean archipelago nation. Maldives which was initially dependent on India for its security and trade moved towards China since 2013 after Abdulla Yameen took to power.

The recent transition of power in the Maldives is expected to transform the relationship between India and the Indian Ocean archipelago nation. Maldives which was initially dependent on India for its security and trade moved towards China since 2013 after Abdulla Yameen took to power. Since then the island country had received significant grants and loan from China's Belt and Road Initiative. Maldives also utilised the funds that it had received from China in advancing the international airport in the capital of Male and a bridge connecting the airport to town. The Chinese investment in the Maldives is seen as part of its "String of Pearls" strategy, developing a network of friendly ports in the region from Sri Lanka to Pakistan. Before the election, the opposition said it would review Chinese investment, partly out of concern over terms, as experts have warned that the Maldives risked falling into a debt trap. Maldives failure in paying off the debts may throw the country in a serious debt trap as it may have to face adverse consequence just like Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka had to sell off a majority of its stake in the Hambantota port to China after it failed to pay off the debts. While new power in the Maldives seems to have an inclination towards India, Maldives may not ignore China due to its unparalleled funding which India can certainly not match. A media report quoted Alyssa Ayres, a senior South Asia fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations as saying that as Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's pro-democracy government is more politically aligned with New Delhi, he is likely to repair ties with India and "veer back to the more traditional close regional partnership". Veteran Maldives lawmaker Ibrahim Mohamed Solih overcame the detention and exile of key opposition figures to win a weekend presidential poll and unseat incumbent Abdulla Yameen The victory of Solih, who is known as a reformer, dislodges Yameen, a hardliner who had cultivated ties with both Beijing and Saudi Arabia, and cracked down on threats to his rule, even jailing his own half-brother, Maumoon Abdul Gayoom. (With inputs from agencies)

Will Maldives see closer ties with India under Ibrahim Mohamed Solih?

The defeated strongman of the Maldives, Abdulla Yameen, is welcome in neighbouring Sri Lanka, Colombo said Tuesday, two days after his surprise defeat in presidential elections.

Sri Lanka has long been a haven for dissidents from the nearby Maldives over years of political upheaval, including for hundreds of opponents of Yameen since he became president in 2013.

In a phone call on Monday, Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe "informed Mr. Yameen that he is welcome in Colombo at any time," the premier's office said.

Wickremesinghe made the call after hosting Yameen's arch rival and former Maldives president Mohamed Nasheed at a luncheon meeting on Monday.&nbsp;

Nasheed, the atoll nation's first democratically elected leader, was sentenced to 13 years in jail after narrowly losing the 2013 elections to Yameen.

He fled to London where he sought refuge and now lives in Sri Lanka.

Sunday's election was held with all key opposition leaders behind bars or in exile, leaving the little-known Ibrahim Mohamed Solih to challenge Yameen.

In a major upset, Solih won with 58 per cent of the vote.

Solih's victory was greeted warmly by India as Yameen had drifted closer to China, borrowing heavily from New Delhi's regional rival to invest in infrastructure.

Declaring victory, Solih demanded Yameen immediately release all political prisoners in the country. A Maldivian court freed five of them on Monday night.

Many more are still in jail, including Yameen's estranged half-brother and former president Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, 80, who is expected to be released shortly.

Under intense international pressure, Yameen conceded defeat and pledged to allow a peaceful transition when he formally steps down on November 17.

Rights group Amnesty International called Tuesday on Solih to "break with the repression and human rights violations of the past and chart a fresh course where human rights are at the heart" of government policy.

The European Union, which had earlier threatened sanctions, said Monday that it would "continue to closely review the situation".

The defeated strongman of the Maldives, Abdulla Yameen, is welcome in neighbouring Sri Lanka, Colombo said Tuesday, two days after his surprise defeat in presidential elections.

The defeated strongman of the Maldives, Abdulla Yameen, is welcome in neighbouring Sri Lanka, Colombo said Tuesday, two days after his surprise defeat in presidential elections. Sri Lanka has long been a haven for dissidents from the nearby Maldives over years of political upheaval, including for hundreds of opponents of Yameen since he became president in 2013. In a phone call on Monday, Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe "informed Mr. Yameen that he is welcome in Colombo at any time," the premier's office said. Wickremesinghe made the call after hosting Yameen's arch rival and former Maldives president Mohamed Nasheed at a luncheon meeting on Monday. Nasheed, the atoll nation's first democratically elected leader, was sentenced to 13 years in jail after narrowly losing the 2013 elections to Yameen. He fled to London where he sought refuge and now lives in Sri Lanka. Sunday's election was held with all key opposition leaders behind bars or in exile, leaving the little-known Ibrahim Mohamed Solih to challenge Yameen. In a major upset, Solih won with 58 per cent of the vote. Solih's victory was greeted warmly by India as Yameen had drifted closer to China, borrowing heavily from New Delhi's regional rival to invest in infrastructure. Declaring victory, Solih demanded Yameen immediately release all political prisoners in the country. A Maldivian court freed five of them on Monday night. Many more are still in jail, including Yameen's estranged half-brother and former president Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, 80, who is expected to be released shortly. Under intense international pressure, Yameen conceded defeat and pledged to allow a peaceful transition when he formally steps down on November 17. Rights group Amnesty International called Tuesday on Solih to "break with the repression and human rights violations of the past and chart a fresh course where human rights are at the heart" of government policy. The European Union, which had earlier threatened sanctions, said Monday that it would "continue to closely review the situation".

Sri Lanka ready to welcome toppled Maldives strongman

China on Tuesday (September 25, 2018) congratulated the new president of the Maldives on his election victory, after opposition leader Ibrahim Mohamed Solih defeated incumbent Abdulla Yameen in the Indian Ocean island nation last week.

Foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang made the comment at a daily news briefing in the Chinese capital.

Yameen, who had cultivated ties with both Beijing and Saudi Arabia, conceded defeat after the Election Commission said Solih had won by a margin of 16.7 per cent.

Before the election, the opposition said it would review Chinese investment, partly out of concern over terms, as experts have warned that the archipelago risked falling into a debt trap.

China on Tuesday (September 25, 2018) congratulated the new president of the Maldives on his election victory, after opposition leader Ibrahim Mohamed Solih defeated incumbent Abdulla Yameen in the Indian Ocean island nation last week.

China on Tuesday (September 25, 2018) congratulated the new president of the Maldives on his election victory, after opposition leader Ibrahim Mohamed Solih defeated incumbent Abdulla Yameen in the Indian Ocean island nation last week. Foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang made the comment at a daily news briefing in the Chinese capital. Yameen, who had cultivated ties with both Beijing and Saudi Arabia, conceded defeat after the Election Commission said Solih had won by a margin of 16.7 per cent. Before the election, the opposition said it would review Chinese investment, partly out of concern over terms, as experts have warned that the archipelago risked falling into a debt trap.

China congratulates new Maldives president on election win

Veteran Maldives lawmaker Ibrahim Mohamed Solih overcame the detention and exile of key opposition figures to win a weekend presidential poll and unseat incumbent Abdulla Yameen, but now faces the task of holding together a disparate coalition.

The Maldives, a string of palm-fringed islands and atolls 325 miles (523 kilometres) southwest of the southern tip of India, is best known as a luxury holiday destination.

But the Muslim nation of fewer than half a million has suffered a turbulent transition to democracy since the end of three decades of authoritarian rule in 2008.

The victory of Solih, who is known as a reformer, dislodges Yameen, a hardliner who had cultivated ties with both Beijing and Saudi Arabia, and cracked down on threats to his rule, even jailing his own half-brother, Maumoon Abdul Gayoom.

But Solih, who is expected to be sworn in on November 17, must now keep together a coalition that includes two fierce rivals, Gayoom and Mohamed Nasheed, both former presidents.

Also part of the unlikely alliance, held together by a pro-Islam religious agenda, are business tycoon Qasim Ibrahim’s Jumhooree Party and the Islamist Adhaalath Party, which formed a coalition that led to the downfall of Gayoon in 2013.

"For the president-elect, ensuring a smooth transition and then selecting an all-acceptable, multi-party Cabinet would be the first priority," said N Sathiya Moorthy, an analyst at Indian think tank the Observer Research Foundation.

"He would have to facilitate the return home of both Nasheed and Qasim Ibrahim, who are in self-exile."

Reformer and negotiator

The opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) nominated Solih, popularly known as "Ibu", as its presidential candidate after the Elections Commission barred Nasheed, now in exile in Sri Lanka, from standing.

Many key opposition leaders, two former presidents Gayoom and Nasheed, a vice president and scores of ministers were hit with jail terms after swift trials that drew international criticism.

Solih has been in the opposition since he first entered parliament, known as the People's Majlis, in 1994, except for a two-year spell under Nasheed, before the latter was ousted amid a police mutiny.

A close confidant of the former president and married to one of his cousins, Solih played a leading role in forming the Maldives Political Reform Movement from 2003 until 2008, which culminated in the adoption of a new constitution.

He was also part of the special parliament set up under Gayoom, who ruled the tropical islands for three decades until 2008, to write a new modern constitution for a multi-party democracy. He has led the opposition in parliament since 2011.

He led the MDP during protests in March 2015 after Nasheed's arrest for alleged terror offences, charges the opposition called politically motivated.

Friends say Solih has a calm temperament, and is likely to champion democracy and freedom of expression.

He has already said he will seek to free all political prisoners, including Gayoom. He also wants to rework or scrap deals not made in the best interests of the Maldives, as well as restore ties with India, which could, in turn, strain relations with Beijing.

Veteran Maldives lawmaker Ibrahim Mohamed Solih overcame the detention and exile of key opposition figures to win a weekend presidential poll and unseat incumbent Abdulla Yameen, but now faces the task of holding together a disparate coalition.

Veteran Maldives lawmaker Ibrahim Mohamed Solih overcame the detention and exile of key opposition figures to win a weekend presidential poll and unseat incumbent Abdulla Yameen, but now faces the task of holding together a disparate coalition. The Maldives, a string of palm-fringed islands and atolls 325 miles (523 kilometres) southwest of the southern tip of India, is best known as a luxury holiday destination. But the Muslim nation of fewer than half a million has suffered a turbulent transition to democracy since the end of three decades of authoritarian rule in 2008. The victory of Solih, who is known as a reformer, dislodges Yameen, a hardliner who had cultivated ties with both Beijing and Saudi Arabia, and cracked down on threats to his rule, even jailing his own half-brother, Maumoon Abdul Gayoom. But Solih, who is expected to be sworn in on November 17, must now keep together a coalition that includes two fierce rivals, Gayoom and Mohamed Nasheed, both former presidents. Also part of the unlikely alliance, held together by a pro-Islam religious agenda, are business tycoon Qasim Ibrahim’s Jumhooree Party and the Islamist Adhaalath Party, which formed a coalition that led to the downfall of Gayoon in 2013. "For the president-elect, ensuring a smooth transition and then selecting an all-acceptable, multi-party Cabinet would be the first priority," said N Sathiya Moorthy, an analyst at Indian think tank the Observer Research Foundation. "He would have to facilitate the return home of both Nasheed and Qasim Ibrahim, who are in self-exile." Reformer and negotiator The opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) nominated Solih, popularly known as "Ibu", as its presidential candidate after the Elections Commission barred Nasheed, now in exile in Sri Lanka, from standing. Many key opposition leaders, two former presidents Gayoom and Nasheed, a vice president and scores of ministers were hit with jail terms after swift trials that drew international criticism. Solih has been in the opposition since he first entered parliament, known as the People's Majlis, in 1994, except for a two-year spell under Nasheed, before the latter was ousted amid a police mutiny. A close confidant of the former president and married to one of his cousins, Solih played a leading role in forming the Maldives Political Reform Movement from 2003 until 2008, which culminated in the adoption of a new constitution. He was also part of the special parliament set up under Gayoom, who ruled the tropical islands for three decades until 2008, to write a new modern constitution for a multi-party democracy. He has led the opposition in parliament since 2011. He led the MDP during protests in March 2015 after Nasheed's arrest for alleged terror offences, charges the opposition called politically motivated. Friends say Solih has a calm temperament, and is likely to champion democracy and freedom of expression. He has already said he will seek to free all political prisoners, including Gayoom. He also wants to rework or scrap deals not made in the best interests of the Maldives, as well as restore ties with India, which could, in turn, strain relations with Beijing.

New Maldives President Solih: A reformer who must hold together a diverse coalition

The strongman leader of the Maldives on Monday conceded defeat in the presidential election, easing fears of a fresh political crisis in the archipelago at the centre of a battle for influence between India and China.

"The Maldivian people have decided what they want. I have accepted the results from yesterday," President Abdulla Yameen said in a televised address to the Indian Ocean nation a day after the joint opposition candidate unexpectedly triumphed.

"Earlier today, I met with Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, who the Maldivian electorate has chosen to be their next president. I have congratulated him," Yameen said.&nbsp;

He said he would hand over power when his term ends on November 17 and ensure a smooth transition in the 1,200-island nation, popular with foreign tourists for its white sands and blue lagoons.

Solih's victory was a major surprise, with Yameen's main political rivals either in prison or in exile, media coverage of the opposition sparse and monitors and the opposition predicting vote-rigging.

There had been concerns Yameen might not accept the result given what happened after the last election in 2013.

The Supreme Court annulled that result after Yameen trailed former president Mohamed Nasheed -- giving Yameen time to forge alliances and win a second round of voting that was postponed twice.

Results released by the electoral commission showed Yameen on 41.7 per cent of the vote, well behind Solih on 58.3 per cent -- the only other name on ballot papers.

The final official result will take up to a week to be published.

Yameen stayed quiet overnight after the outcome became clear. But signs grew Monday that he would throw in the towel, with a foreign ministry statement saying Solih had won and state media showing him claiming victory.

Nearly 90 per cent of the 262,000 electorate turned out to vote, with some waiting in line for more than five hours.

Celebrations broke out across the archipelago on Sunday night, with opposition supporters waving yellow flags of Solih's Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and dancing in the streets.

On Monday the situation was calm.

The US State Department, which had warned of "appropriate measures" if the vote was not free and fair, had called on Yameen to "respect the will of the people".

Regional superpower India said the result marked "the triumph of democratic forces". But China was yet to comment, with Monday being a public holiday there.

Beijing loaned Yameen's government hundreds of millions of dollars for infrastructure projects like the new "China-Maldives Friendship Bridge" from the airport to the capital Male, which opened in August.

The loans stoked fears among Western countries and India about China's growing influence under its "Belt and Road Initiative" stretching from Asia into Africa and Europe.

Media fearful

Solih had the backing of a united opposition trying to oust Yameen but struggled for visibility. The local media was fearful of falling foul of heavy-handed decrees and reporting restrictions.

In February Yameen imposed a 45-day state of emergency, alarming the international community, in what was seen as an attempt to block a push by his opponents in parliament to impeach him.

A crackdown saw former president Maumoon Abdul Gayoom -- Yameen's half-brother -- jailed along with the Chief Justice and another Supreme Court justice.

Independent international monitors were barred from Sunday's election and only a handful of foreign media were allowed in to cover the poll.

The government had used "vaguely worded laws to silence dissent and to intimidate and imprison critics", some of whom had been assaulted and even murdered, according to Human Rights Watch.

Solih pledged on Twitter before the election that he would open investigations into the disappearance of journalist Ahmed Rilwan, missing since 2014, and the fatal stabbing of blogger Yameen Rasheed in 2017.&nbsp;

He promised also to repeal anti-defamation legislation and "ensure press freedom".

Foreign monitors said Yameen's supporters failed to carry out any large-scale fraud thanks to intense international and local scrutiny from civil society groups.

"In the face of massive pressure, they had to abandon their plans," Rohana Hettiarachchi of the Asian Network for Free Elections told AFP.

The strongman leader of the Maldives on Monday conceded defeat in the presidential election, easing fears of a fresh political crisis in the archipelago at the centre of a battle for influence between India and China.

The strongman leader of the Maldives on Monday conceded defeat in the presidential election, easing fears of a fresh political crisis in the archipelago at the centre of a battle for influence between India and China. "The Maldivian people have decided what they want. I have accepted the results from yesterday," President Abdulla Yameen said in a televised address to the Indian Ocean nation a day after the joint opposition candidate unexpectedly triumphed. "Earlier today, I met with Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, who the Maldivian electorate has chosen to be their next president. I have congratulated him," Yameen said. He said he would hand over power when his term ends on November 17 and ensure a smooth transition in the 1,200-island nation, popular with foreign tourists for its white sands and blue lagoons. Solih's victory was a major surprise, with Yameen's main political rivals either in prison or in exile, media coverage of the opposition sparse and monitors and the opposition predicting vote-rigging. There had been concerns Yameen might not accept the result given what happened after the last election in 2013. The Supreme Court annulled that result after Yameen trailed former president Mohamed Nasheed -- giving Yameen time to forge alliances and win a second round of voting that was postponed twice. Results released by the electoral commission showed Yameen on 41.7 per cent of the vote, well behind Solih on 58.3 per cent -- the only other name on ballot papers. The final official result will take up to a week to be published. Yameen stayed quiet overnight after the outcome became clear. But signs grew Monday that he would throw in the towel, with a foreign ministry statement saying Solih had won and state media showing him claiming victory. Nearly 90 per cent of the 262,000 electorate turned out to vote, with some waiting in line for more than five hours. Celebrations broke out across the archipelago on Sunday night, with opposition supporters waving yellow flags of Solih's Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and dancing in the streets. On Monday the situation was calm. The US State Department, which had warned of "appropriate measures" if the vote was not free and fair, had called on Yameen to "respect the will of the people". Regional superpower India said the result marked "the triumph of democratic forces". But China was yet to comment, with Monday being a public holiday there. Beijing loaned Yameen's government hundreds of millions of dollars for infrastructure projects like the new "China-Maldives Friendship Bridge" from the airport to the capital Male, which opened in August. The loans stoked fears among Western countries and India about China's growing influence under its "Belt and Road Initiative" stretching from Asia into Africa and Europe. Media fearful Solih had the backing of a united opposition trying to oust Yameen but struggled for visibility. The local media was fearful of falling foul of heavy-handed decrees and reporting restrictions. In February Yameen imposed a 45-day state of emergency, alarming the international community, in what was seen as an attempt to block a push by his opponents in parliament to impeach him. A crackdown saw former president Maumoon Abdul Gayoom -- Yameen's half-brother -- jailed along with the Chief Justice and another Supreme Court justice. Independent international monitors were barred from Sunday's election and only a handful of foreign media were allowed in to cover the poll. The government had used "vaguely worded laws to silence dissent and to intimidate and imprison critics", some of whom had been assaulted and even murdered, according to Human Rights Watch. Solih pledged on Twitter before the election that he would open investigations into the disappearance of journalist Ahmed Rilwan, missing since 2014, and the fatal stabbing of blogger Yameen Rasheed in 2017. He promised also to repeal anti-defamation legislation and "ensure press freedom". Foreign monitors said Yameen's supporters failed to carry out any large-scale fraud thanks to intense international and local scrutiny from civil society groups. "In the face of massive pressure, they had to abandon their plans," Rohana Hettiarachchi of the Asian Network for Free Elections told AFP.

Relief as Maldives strongman Abdulla Yameen concedes defeat

Maldives President Abdulla Yameen Monday conceded defeat in elections and said he would arrange a smooth transition for president-elect Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/maldives-opposition-leader-ibrahim-mohamed-solih-wins-presidential-poll-167323">Video: Maldives opposition leader Ibrahim Mohamed Solih wins </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/maldives-opposition-leader-ibrahim-mohamed-solih-wins-presidential-poll-167323">presidential</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/maldives-opposition-leader-ibrahim-mohamed-solih-wins-presidential-poll-167323"> poll</a>

"I have accepted the results from yesterday," Yameen said in a televised address to the nation after Sunday's election gave the joint opposition candidate 58.3 percent of the vote.

"I accept the defeat," Yameen said. "I will enable a smooth transition."

There had been concerns that Yameen, who has borrowed hundreds of millions of dollars from China for an infrastructure blitz, might not accept the outcome.

At the last election in 2013, the Supreme Court annulled the result after Yameen trailed former president Mohamed Nasheed, giving Yameen time to forge alliances and win a second round of voting that was postponed twice.

"The Maldivian people have decided what they want. I have accepted the results from yesterday. Earlier today, I met with Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, who the Maldivian electorate has chosen to be their next president. I have congratulated him," Yameen said Monday.

He said he would remain in office till November 17 when his five-year term ends, but would allow a smooth transition.

Maldives President Abdulla Yameen Monday conceded defeat in elections and said he would arrange a smooth transition for president-elect Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. Video: Maldives opposition leader Ibrahim Mohamed Solih wins presidential poll "I have accepted the results from yesterday," Yameen said in a televised address to the nation after Sunday's election gave the joint opposition candidate 58.

Maldives President Abdulla Yameen Monday conceded defeat in elections and said he would arrange a smooth transition for president-elect Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. Video: Maldives opposition leader Ibrahim Mohamed Solih wins presidential poll "I have accepted the results from yesterday," Yameen said in a televised address to the nation after Sunday's election gave the joint opposition candidate 58.3 percent of the vote. "I accept the defeat," Yameen said. "I will enable a smooth transition." There had been concerns that Yameen, who has borrowed hundreds of millions of dollars from China for an infrastructure blitz, might not accept the outcome. At the last election in 2013, the Supreme Court annulled the result after Yameen trailed former president Mohamed Nasheed, giving Yameen time to forge alliances and win a second round of voting that was postponed twice. "The Maldivian people have decided what they want. I have accepted the results from yesterday. Earlier today, I met with Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, who the Maldivian electorate has chosen to be their next president. I have congratulated him," Yameen said Monday. He said he would remain in office till November 17 when his five-year term ends, but would allow a smooth transition.

Watch: 'I accept defeat', says Yameen after losing Maldives election

Maldives president Yameen concedes election defeat in statement

Opposition candidate Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has taken a 15 percentage point lead over incumbent Abdulla Yameen in the&nbsp;Maldives' presidential election, according to early provisional counts reported by local media.

Yameen was expected to cement his grip on power, amid criticism over the fairness of the vote on the islands, best known as a luxury holiday destination.

Voting closed at 1900 hours (1400 GMT), after the Indian Ocean nation's Election Commission extended voting by three hours due to long queues at polling stations.

The provisional results counted in 250 out of 472 vote boxes as of 1640 GMT, showed the opposition leading by a margin of 15.4 per cent, according to local media, Mihaaru. The provisional results for the remaining 222 vote boxes, with an estimated 130,000 voters are yet to be released.

The opposition said their own exit polls showed their candidate had secured 63 percent of vote, and added that they were closely monitoring the count.

Yameen's party officials told Reuters that results from areas where he has strong support have still to be released.

The Muslim-majority Indian Ocean nation has become a theatre of rivalry between its traditional partner, India, and China, which has backed Yameen's infrastructure drive, and prompted concern in the West about Beijing's increasing influence.

Yameen's government has jailed many of his main rivals, including former president and his half-brother, Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, on charges ranging from terrorism to corruption.

More than a quarter of a million people were eligible to vote across the coral islands. Yameen, 59, is seeking a second five-year term.

Hundreds of people queued outside polling stations in the capital, Male, early on Sunday. On some islands, people started queuing on Saturday night.

"I am voting to revert a mistake I made in 2013. I am voting to free President Maumoon (Gayoom)," Nazima Hassan, 44, told Reuters after voting in Male.

Abdul Rasheed Husain, 46, in Male said he cast his ballot for Yameen to take the&nbsp;Maldives&nbsp;"to the next level".

In the polling booth at the&nbsp;Maldives&nbsp;embassy in Colombo, some voters had to wait for more than seven hours.

Ahamed Ihusan, a 24-year-old business management student, told Reuters that "if it is a free and fair election, the opposition will win."

Many opposition supporters blamed the Election Commission for the delays.

"Yameen is trying to frustrate voters by having a shoddy process for the elections and a long waiting time of 6-8 hours in some stations. I appeal to all to be patient and not step back," an opposition supporter told Reuters, asking not to be named.

Mohamed Shareef Hussain,&nbsp;Maldives&nbsp;envoy to Colombo, said the Electoral Commission had not assigned enough staff, causing delays.

Police late on Saturday raided the main opposition campaign office saying they came to "stop illegal activities", after arresting at least five opposition supporters for "influencing voters", opposition officials said.

British Ambassador James Dauris wrote on Twitter that it was "easy to understand why so many people are concerned about what might happen on Election Day".

International monitors stay away

Most poll monitors, including those from the European Union and the United Nations, declined the government's invitation to observe the election, fearing their presence might be used to endorse Yameen's re-election even after possible vote rigging.

Rohana Hettiarachchi, a member of the Asian Network for Free Elections (ANFREL), which was named as an election monitor, said his organisation could in fact not take part.

"Our four members were invited and the Elections Commission published our name in the international monitors list. But we did not get the required visa," he told Reuters.

Transparency&nbsp;Maldives, one of the few election monitors on the ground, said the initial vote had gone smoothly.

The opposition's joint candidate, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, known as Ibu, told supporters he was confident of victory.

"I appeal to everyone not to allow any space for unrest tomorrow," he told a rally on Saturday. "Let the voting end peacefully and let the people decide what they want. The people are hungry for a change."

Yameen also urged voters to head to the polls and said he was confident of the work he had done in his first term in office to put the nation on a path of development.

The country has been in political turmoil since February, when Yameen imposed a state of emergency to annul a Supreme Court ruling that quashed the convictions of nine opposition leaders, including Mohamed Nasheed, the country's first democratically-elected leader and former president.

Yameen has disregarded calls from the United Nations, several Western countries and India for an amicable solution to the crisis.

Ahead of the vote, Human Rights Watch urged foreign governments to press the&nbsp;Maldives&nbsp;to uphold democratic rights.

"Should the&nbsp;Maldives&nbsp;government fail to do so, they should impose targeted sanctions, such as those proposed by the European Union, against senior ruling party officials implicated in abuses," the New York-based group said in a statement.

Opposition candidate Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has taken a 15 percentage point lead over incumbent Abdulla Yameen in the Maldives' presidential election, according to early provisional counts reported by local media.

Opposition candidate Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has taken a 15 percentage point lead over incumbent Abdulla Yameen in the Maldives' presidential election, according to early provisional counts reported by local media. Yameen was expected to cement his grip on power, amid criticism over the fairness of the vote on the islands, best known as a luxury holiday destination. Voting closed at 1900 hours (1400 GMT), after the Indian Ocean nation's Election Commission extended voting by three hours due to long queues at polling stations. The provisional results counted in 250 out of 472 vote boxes as of 1640 GMT, showed the opposition leading by a margin of 15.4 per cent, according to local media, Mihaaru. The provisional results for the remaining 222 vote boxes, with an estimated 130,000 voters are yet to be released. The opposition said their own exit polls showed their candidate had secured 63 percent of vote, and added that they were closely monitoring the count. Yameen's party officials told Reuters that results from areas where he has strong support have still to be released. The Muslim-majority Indian Ocean nation has become a theatre of rivalry between its traditional partner, India, and China, which has backed Yameen's infrastructure drive, and prompted concern in the West about Beijing's increasing influence. Yameen's government has jailed many of his main rivals, including former president and his half-brother, Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, on charges ranging from terrorism to corruption. More than a quarter of a million people were eligible to vote across the coral islands. Yameen, 59, is seeking a second five-year term. Hundreds of people queued outside polling stations in the capital, Male, early on Sunday. On some islands, people started queuing on Saturday night. "I am voting to revert a mistake I made in 2013. I am voting to free President Maumoon (Gayoom)," Nazima Hassan, 44, told Reuters after voting in Male. Abdul Rasheed Husain, 46, in Male said he cast his ballot for Yameen to take the Maldives "to the next level". In the polling booth at the Maldives embassy in Colombo, some voters had to wait for more than seven hours. Ahamed Ihusan, a 24-year-old business management student, told Reuters that "if it is a free and fair election, the opposition will win." Many opposition supporters blamed the Election Commission for the delays. "Yameen is trying to frustrate voters by having a shoddy process for the elections and a long waiting time of 6-8 hours in some stations. I appeal to all to be patient and not step back," an opposition supporter told Reuters, asking not to be named. Mohamed Shareef Hussain, Maldives envoy to Colombo, said the Electoral Commission had not assigned enough staff, causing delays. Police late on Saturday raided the main opposition campaign office saying they came to "stop illegal activities", after arresting at least five opposition supporters for "influencing voters", opposition officials said. British Ambassador James Dauris wrote on Twitter that it was "easy to understand why so many people are concerned about what might happen on Election Day". International monitors stay away Most poll monitors, including those from the European Union and the United Nations, declined the government's invitation to observe the election, fearing their presence might be used to endorse Yameen's re-election even after possible vote rigging. Rohana Hettiarachchi, a member of the Asian Network for Free Elections (ANFREL), which was named as an election monitor, said his organisation could in fact not take part. "Our four members were invited and the Elections Commission published our name in the international monitors list. But we did not get the required visa," he told Reuters. Transparency Maldives, one of the few election monitors on the ground, said the initial vote had gone smoothly. The opposition's joint candidate, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, known as Ibu, told supporters he was confident of victory. "I appeal to everyone not to allow any space for unrest tomorrow," he told a rally on Saturday. "Let the voting end peacefully and let the people decide what they want. The people are hungry for a change." Yameen also urged voters to head to the polls and said he was confident of the work he had done in his first term in office to put the nation on a path of development. The country has been in political turmoil since February, when Yameen imposed a state of emergency to annul a Supreme Court ruling that quashed the convictions of nine opposition leaders, including Mohamed Nasheed, the country's first democratically-elected leader and former president. Yameen has disregarded calls from the United Nations, several Western countries and India for an amicable solution to the crisis. Ahead of the vote, Human Rights Watch urged foreign governments to press the Maldives to uphold democratic rights. "Should the Maldives government fail to do so, they should impose targeted sanctions, such as those proposed by the European Union, against senior ruling party officials implicated in abuses," the New York-based group said in a statement.

Opposition candidate takes early lead in Maldives Presidential election

Hundreds of Maldivians were headed to polling booths on Sunday as voting began in a controversial presidential election&nbsp;amid fears that the process has been rigged in China-friendly strongman Abdulla Yameen's favour.

Some 262,000 people in the archipelago -- famed for its white beaches and blue lagoons -- can vote in an election from which independent international monitors have been barred.

According to reports, only a handful of foreign media have been allowed in.

The news agency AFP quoted the Asian Network for Free Elections, a foreign monitoring group, saying that the campaign was heavily tilted in favour of the 59-year-old Yameen.

The network said it did not expect a fair contest.

"In the absence of any scrutiny (of the elections) or pressure (on the government), sombre events surely loom ahead for the people of Maldives," it said on the eve of the vote.

Yameen has imprisoned or forced into exile all his main rivals and is expected to retain his hold on power in the Indian Ocean island nation.

Foreign monitors and the opposition have slammed his government for its crackdown on opponents and the media, and urged the international community not to recognise the results of the election.

Meanwhile, before polls opened in the morning, police raided the campaign headquarters of the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), searched the building for several hours in a bid to stop what they called "illegal activities".&nbsp;

However, no arrests were made.

(With inputs from news agency)

Hundreds of Maldivians were headed to polling booths on Sunday as voting began in a controversial presidential election amid fears that the process has been rigged in China-friendly strongman Abdulla Yameen's favour.

Hundreds of Maldivians were headed to polling booths on Sunday as voting began in a controversial presidential election amid fears that the process has been rigged in China-friendly strongman Abdulla Yameen's favour. Some 262,000 people in the archipelago -- famed for its white beaches and blue lagoons -- can vote in an election from which independent international monitors have been barred. According to reports, only a handful of foreign media have been allowed in. The news agency AFP quoted the Asian Network for Free Elections, a foreign monitoring group, saying that the campaign was heavily tilted in favour of the 59-year-old Yameen. The network said it did not expect a fair contest. "In the absence of any scrutiny (of the elections) or pressure (on the government), sombre events surely loom ahead for the people of Maldives," it said on the eve of the vote. Yameen has imprisoned or forced into exile all his main rivals and is expected to retain his hold on power in the Indian Ocean island nation. Foreign monitors and the opposition have slammed his government for its crackdown on opponents and the media, and urged the international community not to recognise the results of the election. Meanwhile, before polls opened in the morning, police raided the campaign headquarters of the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), searched the building for several hours in a bid to stop what they called "illegal activities". However, no arrests were made. (With inputs from news agency)

Hundreds of Maldivians vote in controversial presidential poll

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