UN chief calls for credible, peaceful presidential election in Maldives

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka – The U.N. chief is urging the Maldives to ensure that the upcoming presidential election will be conducted in a credible and peaceful manner.

U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon's office said he "encourages all presidential candidates to respect the election results no matter who wins and asks that all stakeholders overcome their past differences."

Ban has also urged "all Maldivians to work together in a constructive manner toward national harmony and democratic consolidation."

The second multi-party presidential election ever held in this Indian ocean archipelago is set for Sept. 7.

Maldives has been in a political turmoil since last year's resignation of Mohamed Nasheed — the first president elected in democratic elections. Nasheed says he was forced out in a coup.