Progressive party of the Maldives headed by Abdullah Yameen conceded defeat by congratulating the new president, by saying, “I accept that result.”

59-year old Yameen had faced international criticism over his recent wide-range clamp down on dissent, detaining Supreme Court judges, and for declaring a 45-day emergency in the small island nation. The people of Maldives want change, peace and justice.”

India, which is concerned with the political instability in the Maldives, also welcomed the result. I have accepted the results from yesterday," Abdulla Yameen said in a televised address to the Indian Ocean nation a day after the joint opposition candidate unexpectedly triumphed. “India looks forward to working closely with the Maldives in further deepening our partnership.”

Solih’s win presents an opportunity for India to rebuild the traditionally strong ties between the two countries in order to counter China’s growing influence in the Indian Ocean region.
Outgoing president Abdulla Yameen concedes defeat to opposition candidate Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.