Thomas Jefferson’s vision of democracy has been enacted in Bogota, where two quite different mayors have envisioned a just, civil society based on equality, and followed through with their actions by educating people with humor, and investing in the infrastructure (schools, transportation, health) to make civil urban society a reality.

We in America, complacent that we “have” a democracy, are just awakening to our own reality of growing inequality, fraying infrastructure, and the need for sustainable visions and actions in our own cities. We can learn and be inspired by Bogota. What a great example – Thank you!

The accusations in this statement are quite serious and ignores the context of recent Maldivian political history. For one thing, how have you determined that the executive has used its powers to ‘harass and deter the functioning of parliament’ and ‘disrepute the judiciary’? I’d also suggest that both main parties would take umbrage at being accused of inciting violence. It’s understood that ‘People’s Court’ symbolizes the frustration of the people who attend the nightly MDP protests. Likewise, DRP ‘mobilizing’ its supporters does not imply a call to violence.

Also, it would help if you could substantiate the claim that the government is not addressing the ‘root cause’ of the crisis.