The elections set for 2008 in the Maldives could mark the beginning of a new democratic era. However it might also bring to an end the reform agenda that has been pursued by the government since 2003.
At stake is whether or not a traditional Islamic country can embrace modern democratic norms and practices, or whether the Maldives will be seen as part of the growing trend of retrenchment of authoritarian, conservative rulers and an example of the perceived conflict between Islam and Democracy. Last week I was in Washington speaking at a conference of the Center for the Study of Islam and Democracy, about how building a strong civil society and in particular how political party development can be used promote the requirements of a robust democracy. Visit the Maldives Election Watch website where you can read our paper.
But if democracy is to flourish, the forthcoming presidential elections must be free and fair.
International pressure has played a crucial role in pushing a closed society to open up political space. That pressure must be sustained.And I'm not always convinced that the International community is strategic enough about such issues-we need to get some visible democratic 'wins' to encourage campaigners for democracy everywhere.
There is a real opportunity for religious conservatives and secular liberals to achieve a sustainable balance in a Muslim society. But the political future is delicately poised and by no means certain.
"There is a real opportunity for religious conservatives and secular liberals to achieve a sustainable balance in a Muslim society."
secular liberals? do they even exist in maldives.
secularmaldives.blogspot.com
Posted by: non-muslim | 22 May 2008 at 10:07 AM
Yep, here's one. But I think, for the majority of secularist Maldivians its a secret affair. The Maldivian mindset will not tolerate atheism. perhaps for the fear of 'Ranna-maari'?
Posted by: i-win | 22 May 2008 at 12:30 PM