Nasheed, who resigned last year amid protests, was the leading vote-getter in the Nov. 9 first round, with 47 percent to Gayoom's 30 percent, but a runoff was required because no candidate got 50 percent.
Gayoom improved on his first-round performance by courting supporters of tourist resort owner Qasim Ibrahim, who finished third in the first round with 23 percent of the vote. Ibrahim drew his support from conservative Muslims who accused Nasheed of undermining Islam because of his friendly relations with Israel and Western nations.
Addressing the nation after being sworn in, Gayoom said his main priority would be to "increase the love of the religion and the nation" and bring back stability. He also promised economic policy changes that would give more opportunities to youth, fishermen and farmers.
Nasheed was the clear pre-election favorite, but lost his momentum amid long delays to complete the election.
He conceded the election Saturday and said he would not challenge the results.
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