The death of Ahsan Basheer: Death sentence appeal for Shahum nears conclusion
The Supreme Court is nearing a conclusion in the case to uphold the death sentence issued against Ibrahim Shahum for the murder of Ahsan Basheer. While the High Court previously found Shahum guilty based on a dying declaration made by the victim, the apex court is expected to deliver its final verdict following a final clarification of case details.
Ibrahim Shahum, who was found guilty of the stabbing death of Ahsan Basheer of Varudheege, Addu Hithadhoo. | Raajje MV
The Supreme Court is nearing the conclusion of hearings to determine the finality of the death sentence issued against Ibrahim Shahum, who was convicted of the fatal stabbing of Ahsan Basheer of Varudheege, Seenu Hithadhoo.
The High Court recently overturned a 2014 lower court ruling that had acquitted Hassan Shimaz Mohamed Suwad of Ma. Venusthari and Ibrahim Shahum Adam of G. Cosy. Upon appeal, the High Court found both individuals guilty of the charges brought against them.
The conviction of the two individuals was based on a dying declaration. In delivering the verdict, the judge noted that courts in many jurisdictions place significant weight on statements made by a person who has no hope of recovery and is facing imminent death.
It was noted that prior to his death, Ahsan, while hospitalized, told several individuals that the two defendants in this case were responsible for his murder. However, the judge stated that Shimaz, who was convicted of aiding and abetting the murder, cannot be given the same sentence as the primary perpetrator of the crime.
In this regard, Shimaz has been sentenced to 15 years in prison. Meanwhile, Shahum has been handed the death penalty.
The High Court has overturned the Criminal Court's verdict, which had previously cleared the defendant of the charges. Consequently, the state has appealed to the Supreme Court seeking to uphold the lower court's original ruling.
Following the conclusion of the latest hearings at the Supreme Court, the case is now nearing a final resolution. During Monday's session, the bench announced that one additional hearing would be held to clarify specific points raised by the justices. The court further noted that, provided no additional issues arise during the deliberation process, the subsequent session will be scheduled for the delivery of the final verdict.
The case is being presided over by a five-judge bench of the Supreme Court.
In 2022, the state submitted Shahum’s death sentence to the Supreme Court for validation. Under the current legal framework, all capital punishment rulings must be appealed to higher courts to ensure their legal validity.
