Commission of National Inquiry
I believe that unarmed truth and unconditional love will have the final word.
- Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Discover the truth behind one former Head of State's claim that he was forced to relinquish power with a gun to his head, due to conspiring forces. This Maldivian President captured the world's imagination, but it was only through a 6-month long investigation, by one of the most independent commissions ever constituted anywhere in the world, that the truth finally prevailed. Though this Maldivian President initially accepted the findings of the report, "with reservations" he would later refute it completely.
The CoNI submitted the report of its findings on 30 August 2012, where they stated that:
1. The change of President on 7 February 2012 was legal and constitutional.
2. The events that occurred on 6 and 7 February 2012 were, in large measure, reactions to the actions of President Nasheed.
3. The resignation of President Nasheed was voluntary and of his own free will. It was not caused by any illegal coercion or intimidation.
4. There were acts of police brutality on 6, 7, and 8 February 2012 that must be investigated and pursued further by relevant authorities.
“The nation has been well served by the [CoNI] Commissioners, and any assertions of bias or lack of objectivity leveled against those remaining have no justification. They reflect badly on those making unfounded allegations.”
“In reality [MDP-led street demonstrations] is rather more bully-boy tactics involving actual and threatened intimidation by a violent mob. This perpetual behavior is sapping public life and hindering the Maldives' development as a modern democracy.”
“Four of the five members [of CoNI] acted with independence and integrity in carrying out the important task for the future of the nation. The other member [nominated by Nasheed] was not at all times willing or able to act independently and resigned the evening before this report was submitted and published... Without any justification, [he] created discord and mistrust in a community which desperately needs reconciliation.”
- Sir Bruce Robertson & Professor John Packer, International Observers and Advisers to CoNI -