In the Maldives, a resignation that keeps democracy afloat

"Nasheed's short tenure, when compared to the long innings of his predecessor, will be remembered for not only heralding a democratic era but also avoidable constitutional and political deadlocks."

Rather than allowing events to drift towards a political or even military showdown, Maldivian President Mohammed “Anni” Nasheed has shown great fidelity to democratic principles in a country where none existed before him by stepping down from office with grace and poise. The Hindu : Opinion / Op-Ed : In the Maldives, a resignation that keeps democracy afloat

The new President and his two predecessors can play a concurrent and contributory role to make a Maldives of their collective dreams.

Trouble in paradise

Mohammed Nasheed resigned as President of Maldives, emerges as a well-intentioned politician with strong democratic convictions but one who was unable to make properly the transition from activist to leader of a country.

He can take the credit for overseeing the end of the three-decade reign of Maumoon Abdul Gayoom. But unfortunately, he failed to recognize his dependence on opposition parties; instead of cultivating allies, he alienated many in his haste to weed out the Gayoom legacy.

The Hindu : Opinion / Editorial : Trouble in paradise: "It is praiseworthy, and speaks to his progressive political beliefs, that he stepped down rather than impose Emergency, enabling the vice-president to succeed him in an orderly and constitutional transition of power."