EU asks Maldives to ensure free elections

Diplomats accredited to the Maldives, but based outside the Indian Ocean atoll nation, said they expected the Male government to ensure the December 31 election to parliament would be free and fair.

Political parties are not recognised in the Maldives where people vote for individuals.

The dissident Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), which operates out of Sri Lanka, said it did not expect a fair election as several key opposition figures were still in detention.