MP Mauroof remanded for five days
MP Mauroof received a five-day remand following his arrest at a fishermen's protest, facing charges including obstruction of maritime navigation and damaging a Coast Guard vessel. MDP condemned his arrest as violating parliamentary privileges and called for release of all detained protesters, criticizing the government's broken promises to fishermen and police response to the peaceful demonstration
MP for Kendhoo constituency Mauroof Zakir is the co-founder of BKMU
The Criminal Court has remanded MP for Kendhoo constituency Mauroof Zakir, for five days following his arrest during a recent protest by skipjack tuna fishermen.
Mauroof, along with others detained during the fishermen’s protest, which began on December 10, was presented for a remand extension hearing on Friday afternoon.
The court imposed the five-day remand period for Mauroof.
The Maldives Police Service (MPS) has pinned several allegations against Mauroof in connection with the case, including obstruction of maritime navigation, causing damage to a Coast Guard vessel, and obstructing police officers in the execution of their duties. The evidence cited by authorities consists mainly of statements provided by the police.
Further steps in the investigation include reviewing video footage, recording Mauroof’s statement, seeking additional corroborating evidence, and consulting with the Prosecutor General's Office regarding possible charges.
The main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has issued a statement condemning Mauroof’s arrest, claiming it violates the parliamentary privileges afforded to Members of Parliament.
MDP argues that the arrests of protesters are unconstitutional, as the Constitution guarantees freedom of expression and assembly.
The party has called for the immediate release of all individuals detained during the protest.
In addition to this, MDP criticized the government for failing to meet its promises to the fishermen and condemned the police’s response to the peaceful protest, which was held to oppose the government’s inconsistent policies.
MDP organized a peaceful protest outside the Criminal Court against the remand extension for Mauroof and other arrested individuals, with participation from members of the skipjack tuna fishermen's union.
