September 29, 2014 - Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird today issued the following statement:
"Canada is concerned by disturbing reports of increasing Islamic extremism and deterioration in the promotion and protection of human rights in the Maldives. The likely kidnapping of a leading local journalist and threats and attacks against other journalists, politicians and activists are particularly disturbing.
"The government and judiciary must demonstrate a clearer commitment to dealing with these issues, including indications of domestic support for the so-called Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL).
"In this context, it is unfortunate that the Supreme Court has decided to initiate action against the national Human Rights Commission—a decision that will not help to restore its credibility. Free speech must be protected, not trampled.
"Canada conveyed concerns about this situation at the Commonwealth Foreign Affairs Ministers meeting in New York last week, and we will continue to monitor developments closely."
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