US \'deeply concerned\'by decision of Maldives president

The US government is "deeply concerned" by Maldives President Mohamed Waheed's decision to remain past the legal mandate of his presidency, which ended on Sunday, State Department spokesperson Jen Psaki said on Monday. "This action has endangered the Maldivian people's right to elect a leader of their choice," Psaki added. "The democratic process must be supported by quickly concluding a free, fair, transparent and inclusive runoff election that results in the prompt inauguration of the new president. In the lead up to the November 16 second round vote, it is important to avoid violence and for the police and military to show restraint and respect the human rights of all Maldivian citizens," he said. The Maldivian Supreme Court has determined November 16 as the new date for run-off elections in the island nation.