In a landmark ruling, the Maldives Supreme Court has ordered the immediate release of nine opposition leaders including former President Mohamed Nasheed and begin fair retrial. <br/><br/>The ruling issued last evening said all political prisoners must be released as the trials against them violated the Maldives' Constitution and international law. <br/><br/>The ruling, which came in response to opposition petition, also stated that political pressure was applied on the prosecutors and the courts during these trials. <br/><br/>The joint opposition, consisting of four opposition parties led by former President Nasheed welcomed the rulings and called for the immediate resignation of President Yameen. <br/><br/>The latter has been accused of trying to scuttle parliamentary democracy and misuse of powers in the country. <br/><br/>US ambassador to the Maldives, while welcoming the ruling, urged government and security forces to respect it.