President Dr Waheed take oath of office

On 7th February 2012, the newly-sworn-in President of the Maldives Dr Mohamed Waheed Hassan Manik has said that today Maldivians have obtained the true assurance of their rights guaranteed the constitution.

He was addressing the public after the ceremony held for him to take the oath of office as President of Maldives.

“Today, we have established rule of law in our beloved country. It is the day that Maldivians feel protected by the constitution,” President Dr Waheed said.



He stated that the constitution of the Maldives has the power of sovereignty and that all the rules and limits of the state powers are defined in the Constitution. This includes all Maldivian people, the parliament, judiciary and other institutions.

He said that he is aware of the huge responsibility associated with the post of the President of Maldives.

“The Maldives has gone through terrible times in the recent past. Maldivian people have made an important decision today. They have decided to uphold the sovereignty of the constitution and establish a rule of law,” the President said.

The President assured the public that his government will uphold the rules of the constitution.

“I assure you that no unlawful orders will be issued to the Police, the military, or anyone. The rules of the constitution and laws will be upheld,” the President said.

Dr Waheed also assured protection for the former President and his family within the limits of the law. He asked Maldivians to set aside all differences and unite for the sake of national unity.

“I call every Maldivian person to work for the sake of the nation. To work for democracy, development and our future generations,” the President said.

He advised people to prioritize peace in the society and refrain from taking revenge from members of the former government.

“Now it the time for political parties, defence forces and the public to set aside all anger and jealousy, and work for the benefit of the nation,” the President said.

“I applaud the courage of true Maldivians who stood up for their nation today. I thank the Police and MNDF who have sacrificed in upholding the laws. I ask for the will of god and the assistance of the beloved Maldivian people, in this quest to serve my country,” the President said.