London: Expressing concern over the political instability in Maldives, Britain on Friday urged all parties to avoid taking any steps that could cast doubt over the integrity of the electoral process.
"It is important for all parties to avoid taking action which could lead to doubt over the integrity of the electoral process and contribute to continuing instability," the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) said in a statement, calling for calm and restraint.
During his recent visit to Maldives, FCO Minister Alistair Burt had said it was vital that the country move decisively towards free, fair and inclusive Presidential Elections.
He also stressed the importance of all parties being able to participate in elections with their candidate.
The FCO statement came after former Maldivian President Mohamed Nasheed took refuge at the Indian High Commission in Male soon after an arrest warrant was issued against him by a Maldivian court.
Nasheed has demanded that President Mohammed Waheed must quit and an interim, caretaker government should be set up to ensure free and fair elections due later this year.
PTI
First Published: Friday, February 15, 2013, 21:16