Maldives president quits

Venezuela Star (IANS) Tuesday 7th February, 2012

Maldives President Mohamed Nasheed resigned Tuesday following overnight protests, authorities here said.

A spokesperson at the Maldives High Commission in Colombo said Vice President Mohammad Waheed was now the acting president, reported Sunday Leader.

Xinhua reported that the Maldives army and police have taken control of the government Tuesday.

The protests began after the president ordered the arrest of a judge over allegations of corruption.

Maldives opposition Dhivehi Qaumee Party (DQP) told The Sunday Leader that a majority of the police and army were backing the president's removal.

DQP spokesperson Mohamad Malech Jamal said there were now celebrations in Male following the announcement that Nasheed had quit.

He said the Male international airport and the state broadcaster were also under the control of the police and army.

Violence broke out Monday night as the army and police were deployed to break up protesters.

"About 800 Police officers gathered at the Republic Square. Several of them are calling for the resignation of Nasheed. Two police officers are issuing commands to these officers separately," Jamal was quoted as saying.