Choose dialogue over street protests: Government

The government has urged political leaders to leave behind street protests and participate in sincere dialogue.

The international community has repeatedly called on leading politicians of Maldives to sit down for talks.

Referring to these calls, Government Spokesperson Abbas Adil Riza said today that the government would fully respect decisions which follow discussions between political leaders.

He said that political parties have raised concerns over MDP’s street protests, and because the President is in constant consultation with members of these political parties, he will not participate in discussions for as long as the protests continue.

Moderator of All-party-talks Ahmed Mujtaba has recently said that work is underway to organise talks between leaders of political parties.

US Ambassador to Maldives, during her recent visit to Maldives, also urged former Presidents Gayoom and Nasheed to participate in the peace talks.