Pres. Muizzu deflects accountability on pre-trial detention after two years of inaction

After two years of silence on a major campaign promise, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has shifted responsibility for addressing the pre-trial detention issue to the judiciary.

The president, who had pledged sweeping judicial reforms to end prolonged pre-trial detentions, expressed hope during the Republic Day ceremony that the judiciary would take action, stating that individuals held without conviction also have rights.

His remarks mark the first time he has publicly addressed the issue since assuming office, despite his repeated campaign assurances that a government under his leadership would abolish the practice altogether. During his campaign visits, including one to Th. Thimarafushi, Muizzu had strongly condemned the indefinite detention of suspects without verdicts, asserting that holding individuals for years without resolution could not be considered justice. He promised that under his administration, no one would be detained without a decision for more than 48 hours.

Nearly two years later, that promise remains unfulfilled. Instead of eliminating pre-trial detention, the government has introduced an electronic monitoring system intended to reduce overcrowding and prolonged custody.

However, the measure has had minimal impact, only ten detainees have been released under electronic tagging so far.

Public frustration continues to grow, with social media users launching campaigns to hold the president accountable for his unkept pledge.

Citizens have been sharing reminders of Muizzu’s promise to abolish pre-trial detention, criticizing what they see as a deliberate attempt to deflect responsibility after years of inaction.