The Maldives must hold a fresh round of presidential polls before October 20, the Supreme Court has ruled while annulling the first phase as the government today appealed to all parties to support new elections.       

The verdict is a major blow to former Maldivian President Mohamed Nasheed who had emerged as the winner in the first round.        

The first round of fresh presidential poll must be held before the 20th of this month and the second round, if necessary, should be before November 3, 2013, the apex court directed on Monday.  

The ruling came after a case was filed by the Jumhooree Party leader Qasim Ibrahim, alleging serious irregularities. The Elections Commission, meanwhile, said the revote would be held on October 19.