The democratization of Maldives

This is a general and a brief look at the unfolding of the democratization process of the Maldives.

Before democratization

Former President Maumoon Gayoom’s 30-year rule brought about an economic transformation to the Maldives. This tourism led transformation gave rise to a number of Maldives luxury hotels and attracted a large number of tourists to the country, a trend that continues to this day with many pleasure seekers frequenting resorts such as the Adaaran Club Rannalhi. However, political unrest arose with allegations of autocratic rule.

Protest in 2004 – 2005

In the years 2004 and 2005, a series of protests organized by Mohamed Nasheed and his party. Following this pressure, President Gayoom legalized political parties.

Elections in 2008

In 2008, multi-party and multi-candidate elections took place to select a new leader. Mohamed Nasheed was elected president at the conclusion of the election and he became the first president to get elected through a multi-party democracy in the history of the nation. Mohammed Waheed became the vice president. The following year, President Nasheed won the Anna Lindh Award for his role in bringing democracy to the Maldives.

Political unrest in 2011 – 2012

Political unrest emerged once again in 2011 – 2012 with a series of protests. The protests eventually ended with the resignation of President Nasheed and Vice President Waheed was sworn in as the new President. Elections took place once again in 2013.

Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+