Waheed withdraws from Maldives presidential repoll

Waheed had received just over five per cent of the votes in the September 7 elections which were controversially cancelled by the countrys Supreme Court earlier this week. The court had ordered fresh round of presidential polls before October 20.

Waheed took this decision in the greater interest of the country at a time when the integrity of the independent Elections Commission and the election process are being challenged, a statement from the Presidents office said. The President will continue until his term expires on 11 November.

Waheeds withdrawal leaves Mohammed Nasheed who had secured more than 45 per cent of popular vote and Abdulla Yameen in the presidential race.