Government is working to close all avenues for justice in the Maldives: Waheed

Former Member of Parliament for the Dhidhdhoo constituency, Abdulla Waheed, has stated that the current administration is dismantling the independence of the Maldivian judiciary and systematically closing all avenues for citizens to obtain justice.

Speaking during the special coverage titled "Dhivehinge Bin Dhivehinnah", Waheed stated that the current administration exhibits significant incompetence across all sectors, noting that the public is now witnessing these failures firsthand.

Noting that President Muizzu’s administration is attempting to exert control over the judiciary after undermining its independence, Waheed stated that the suspension and removal of Supreme Court justices based on unproven allegations were carried out as part of the President's efforts to consolidate all state powers under his personal authority.

Waheed stated that such incidents would not occur if the government were administered in accordance with the Constitution, within a system where the three branches of state remain separate. He further questioned what the government fears and what it is attempting to conceal by seeking to bring the courts and independent state institutions under its direct control.

Furthermore, referring to the Ras Male' project, Waheed stated that instead of appearing in court to clarify matters related to the project to the public, the Attorney General is actively avoiding accountability.

Waheed stated that following the signing of the Ras Male' project's framework agreement, the Attorney General has been maintaining that further agreements can only be executed after enacting specific laws. He alleged that this is an attempt to conceal the irregularities embedded within the current agreement.

What exactly is he so afraid of that he is so determined to govern by bringing the courts and the state's independent institutions under his absolute control? What is he trying to hide? We saw this with the issues surrounding Ras Male'; when the matter was taken to court to seek clarity for the public, the case should have proceeded with both parties present to ensure justice based on the final outcome. However, it never reached that stage because, as the Deputy Speaker noted, he is actively evading the process. We are well aware that the agreements made are riddled with corruption and malpractice. It is clear that these actions are being taken solely to conceal these illicit dealings.

Abdulla Waheed

Waheed stated that the paths to justice for citizens are being obstructed today due to undue influence over the courts and the lack of an environment where judges can conduct trials independently.