United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday urged the government of the Maldives to lift the state of emergency and guarantee the safety of the people of the island nation.
The UN chief is "seriously concerned about the unfolding situation in the Maldives, in particular, the declaration of a state of emergency and the entry of security forces into the Supreme Court premises," a statement from his spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said.
"The Secretary-General urges the Government of the Maldives to uphold the constitution and rule of law, lift the state of emergency as soon as possible, and take all measures to ensure the safety and security of the people in the country, including members of the judiciary," the statement read.
Maldives has been facing days of unrest after the Supreme Court issued a ruling last week to release top opposition political leaders.
Maldivian President Abdulla Yameen on Tuesday said he had declared a 15-day state of emergency and ordered security forces into the Supreme Court because the Supreme Court chief justice had planned to overthrow the government.
Former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom and Chief Justice Abdulla Saeed were arrested shortly after the state of emergency was declared.
