News: Maldives Elects New President
After almost 2 years of political instability an election was conducted on the 9th November. Mohamed Nasheed secured first place with 46% of votes but fet short to reach the magic number 50% +1 vote. Out of the other two candidates Honourable Yameen got the second most votes. A run off election was held on 16th November. President Nasheed from Maldivian Democratic Party contest Honourable Yameen from Progressive Party of Maldives and its coalition members. As results came Nasheed won 48.61% while his rival secured the majority and won the election. A special session of the parliament was held on 17th November at Dharubaaruge and new president took oath. Now the president of Maldives is His Excellency Abdulla Yameen Abdul Qayoom, a half brother of former ruler Maumoon Abdul Qayoom.
The Oath Ceremony
The ceremony was held at popular convention centre Dharubaaruge. Attended by the members of parliament, the guests were welcomed by the speaker and vice speaker of the parliament. Among the guests were former president Maumoon Abdul Qayoom who ruled the country for 30 years and President Mohamed Nasheed who ruled for 3 years. This was the first time two presidents were seen so close and in perfectly pleasant mood. Mohamed Nasheed lost the election but did not show any negative sign or discomfort at the ceremony. The mass media largely complimented Mohamed Nasheed for his matured example of democratic principles.
