Strasbourg, 12 March 15

STATEMENT BY JEAN LAMBERT,
CHAIR OF EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT DELEGATION FOR RELATIONS WITH THE COUNTRIES OF SOUTH ASIA

In the name of the Delegation for relations with South Asia, we express our deep concern at the arrest of former President Nasheed under anti-terrorism laws and at the court proceedings which are reported to be underway.

We recall the EU local statement of 24 February, which had already stressed alarm at former President Nasheed having effectively been denied appropriate legal representation. We stress yet again today the need for adequate time to be given for his defence; the former President, as every Maldivian, has a full right to be represented in Court by lawyers of his choice. This is especially true given the gravity and potential consequences of the current charges.

The EP Delegation reiterates, once again, the importance of respect for democratic principles, including respect for the rule of law, for the Constitution, for due legal process and for the independence of the judiciary.