Qasim Ibrahim's release terms force opposition to move rally venue
The opposition alliance held its serial rally at the Maldivian Democratic Party’s (MDP) headquarters
From a Jumhooree Party rally at Kunooz on 2nd May, 2017
The opposition has discontinued holding rallies at Kunooz, the Jumhooree Party’s assembly camp after party leader Qasim Ibrahim’s release under heavily restrictive conditions.
The opposition alliance held its serial rally at the Maldivian Democratic Party’s (MDP) headquarters on Wednesday night.
The Criminal Court released Jumhooree Party leader from remand after about three weeks in detention, under the condition that he abides by seven terms dictated by the judge.
The court’s ruling on Wednesday stated that Qasim Ibrahim be obliged to do the following:
- Assist in the police investigation into the allegations against him.
- To refrain from any acts that constitute witness tampering.
- To not leave the borders of the capital city.
- To not make remarks that hinders the dignity of the parliament, judiciary, or government and those that are charged with presiding over these institutions.
- To not express ‘sentiments inciting discord’.
- To not meet or interact with individuals who ‘hold sentiments inciting discord’.
- To ensure that any lands or property held by him is not used to spread ‘sentiments inciting discord’.
A member of the Jumhooree Party said that the court’s terms do not specify what judges perceive to be ‘sentiments inciting discord’, and that he believes opposition speeches at rallies may be made to fit the description.
Any violation of these terms, which stand for a period of 60 days, would cause the party’s leader to be moved backed into detention.
Officers arrested and detained Qasim Ibrahim on the night of 6th April on allegations of bribery, attempting to influence the conduct of a public official, and trying to sway a voter.
The police later raised charges of ‘rioting’ against him as well, which is what speeches calling for reform or political protest is classified under in the penal code.
However, the High Court ruled that he be released citing violations of the Parliamentary Privileges Act.
He was arrested again from his home on 20th April, and promptly taken to a holding cell in Dhoonidhoo island.
The court order calling for his detainment the second time stated that he presented a credible threat to the investigation as he had the influence and resources to sway witnesses and in other ways obstruct proceedings.
