Upheaval in the Maldives: 4 things you should know

The Maldives, an archipelago nation best known for its beaches and resorts, is suddenly making headlines after its president stepped down amid protests.  What's going on in the Maldives?

4. What now?

Dinuka Liyanawatte/Reuters
Maldivian riot police officers stand guard as they block supporters of the ousted Maldivian president Mohamed Nasheed during a clash in Male on Wednesday.

It's unclear what's next for the Maldives.  Nasheed, speaking to supporters Wednesday, promised to return to power and "bring justice to the Maldivians." But without the support of either the military or the police, Nasheed's power base is diminished.

Nonetheless, he still has support.  On Wednesday evening, pro-Nasheed protesters began demonstrating against the government, and were met with police using batons and tear gas. The protesters also reportedly seized police stations on some of the smaller islands.

Nasheed also reportedly made overtures to India to intervene.  Mr. Roberts, Nasheed's adviser, told NDTV that Nasheed asked India for military help to deal with the crisis.  "India needs to get off the fence," said Roberts. "India needs to decide who it supports."

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