In signal to Yameen, India calls poll result a win for democracy

NEW DELHI: In another message to President Abulla Yameen of the Maldives, India Thursday said that the recent presidential poll in the archipelago marked a victory of democratic forces. The government also expressed hope that the verdict of the people will prevail.

Yameen, who lost the election and should exit office next month, had sought to challenge the election outcome in court. On Wednesday though he seemed to be finally conceding defeat while talking, in an obvious dig at India, repeatedly about the threat to sovereignty from foreign influence.

Asked about India's stand on the Maldives election, ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said New Delhi had consistently held the position since the imposition of emergency early this year that there was a need to protect democracy in Maldives and preserve the mandate of the people.

"India welcomes the acceptance of the verdict of the people of Maldives. This election marks not only the triumph of democratic forces in the Maldives, but also reflects the firm commitment to the values of democracy and the rule of law. We are confident that the mandate of the people will prevail," he said.

India had welcomed the successful completion of the third presidential election process and congratulated Solih on his victory, he recalled.

United opposition candidate Ibrahim Mohamed Solih was declared the winner in the elections last month. Presiden Yameen initially said he had accepted defeat but later launched a Supreme Court challenge seeking a fresh vote. On Wednesday, Yameen again told the nation in a televised address that he had accepted defeat.

"In keeping with our 'Neighbourhood First' Policy, India looks forward to working closely with the Maldives in further deepening our partnership," Kumar said.

PM Narendra Modi had earlier spoken to President-elect Solih and offered his congratulations. Solih had also invited Modi to visit Male for his swearing-in in November. The government is yet to make up its mind though if Modi or foreign minister Sushma Swaraj will attend the oath-taking. Maldives is the only country in Saarc which Modi is yet to visit.