UN Assistant Secretary-General for Political Affairs arrives in Maldives

United Nations Assistant Secretary-General for Political Affairs Mr. Oscar Fernández-Taranco has arrived in Maldives today.

A press statement released by the UN todaystated that during his stay in Malé, Mr. Fernández-Taranco will meet with senior officials of the Government and political parties, as well as representatives of civil society, to discuss the current situation and identify opportunities to support the country's process of democratic consolidation.

The statement also said that Mr. Oscar Fernández-Taranco will be accompanied by a group of electoral experts from the Department of Political Affairs and UNDP, who will conduct an electoral needs assessment mission (NAM) for possible UN assistance to the country's next elections expected for 2013.

The UN has recently expressed concern over the country’s political instability.

A press statement by the UN office in the Maldives stated that, “The United Nations has a long history of friendship and partnership with the Maldives, and has contributed to some of the remarkable achievements the country has made. With a view to the future, however, the UN continues to be concerned that the current situation in the country may have an impact on the country’s development.”

The statement also said that recently, the Secretary-General spoke of the need for political dialogue, national reconciliation, and respect for the constitution. It also says that he called on all parties to exercise maximum cooperation and restraint and that the High Commissioner for Human Rights and Special Rapporteurs have engaged robustly and provided considerable support over the years on human rights, which has been further strengthened by the recent deployment of a human rights adviser.

In the statement UN affirms that they will continue to provide support and advocate vigorously a renewed focus for development that builds on the gains of the past, and focuses on the needs of the country.