The Supreme Court in the Maldives has halted a run-off vote in a presidential election in the islands after protests from a candidate.
Former president Mohamed Nasheed fell just short of the 50% support that would have given him an outright victory. He polled almost 47%.
The second round was to have taken place on Sunday, but the runner-up Abdulla Yameen sought a delay, saying he needed time to campaign afresh.
Mr Nasheed was forced to resign in 2012, sparking a political crisis.
The BBC reports this is the third time that the presidential elections have been derailed.
A vote on 7 September was annulled by the Supreme Court after one candidate, Gasim Ibrahim, alleged irregularities, despite observer groups deeming the vote free and fair. The court also introduced new guidelines for elections.
Police then halted a re-run on 19 October saying the guidelines had not been met.
The constitution stipulates there must be a new president by Monday.
Despite that deadline, the Supreme Court ruled in a late night sitting that the run-off "cannot take place" and ought to be delayed by six days.
