The Maldives government has declared a state of emergency, amid the deepening political crisis between the president and the judiciary, to release imprisoned opposition leaders.
Maldives President Abdulla Yameen, is facing mounting pressure from the US and India to release former president Mohamed Nasheed from a 13-year jail sentence.
In a statement released by the president’s office on Monday, Yameen defended his actions as ensuring the safety and security of every citizen.