Qasim Ibrahim's sentencing "is the latest step in closure of democratic space", says Amb. Hutchesson

Australia's Ambassador to Maldives, Bryce Hutchesson has said that the sentencing of opposition Jumhooree Party leader Qasim Ibrahim "is the latest step in closure of democratic space".

Qasim Ibrahim was sentenced to three years, two months and 12 days in prison late Thursday, after being found guilty of bribery. He was admitted to hospital at the time of sentencing, after having collapsed inside the court earlier that day. While Qasim has been receiving treatment for a lung and heart condition for most of his life, doctors have advised that he be sent abroad for tests that are not available in the Maldives.

In a tweet sent out on Sunday, after returning to Sri Lanka from Australia, the Ambassador had also expressed concern over the "worsening political trajectory in Maldives".

On Friday, UK's representative to the Maldives, James Dauris emphasized that the Maldives Consitution "requires judges to apply law without fear, favour or prejudice," adding that it is essential that these judges uphold their independence.

In addition, US Ambassador Atul Keshap said that verdict issued on Qasim, in absentia "erases any pretense of judicial impartiality", while Canada said that "the actions of the Government of Maldives risked undermining and damaging democracy in the Maldives".

Noting that "a free and fair parliament and opposition free from intimidation and harassment are essential for a healthy democracy", the Canada's Embassy to Maldives called on the government to "respect democratic rights and ensure the independence of the institutions that protect the rights of the people".

While Canada called to ensure the independence of institutions, the parliament was recently locked down by the military, and senior government officials have been seen at the Supreme Court during late hours, while a controversial case was at the Supreme Court, regarding the legality of opposition parliamentarians.