Bill introduced to implement death penalty by hanging
9 ނޮވެމްބަރު 2026 | ހޯމަ 08:47The government has submitted a bill to the People’s Majlis to establish a formal legal framework for sentencing and implementing the death penalty in the Maldives. This legislation details the procedures for execution, the formation of a specialized oversight committee, the legal rights afforded to the convict, and specific circumstances under which the execution of the sentence would be prohibited.
The Supreme Court of the Maldives. | Social Media
A bill has been introduced to the People’s Majlis on the sentencing and implementation of the death penalty, stipulating that capital punishment shall be carried out by hanging.
The first reading of a government-sponsored bill, introduced by Guraidhoo MP Hannan Mohamed Rasheed, has been scheduled for Monday's parliamentary sitting.
The bill states that its primary objective is to establish a robust legal framework outlining the principles and procedures for sentencing and implementing the death penalty in the Maldives. This framework aims to align with the Constitution and relevant international standards while balancing the rights of the general public and the rights of the convict.
The bill outlines the procedures to be followed by courts in sentencing individuals to death in the Maldives. It further specifies the state's obligations in executing such sentences, the legal rights afforded to the condemned, and the specific circumstances and grounds under which an execution may be stayed. Additionally, the legislation details the broader principles and legal procedures governing the imposition and implementation of the death penalty.
According to the bill, the implementation of the death penalty will be overseen by a seven-member committee. This committee will comprise a commissioned officer from the Maldives Correctional Service, a senior police officer, a prosecutor, a Member of Parliament, a medical doctor, a representative appointed by the Supreme Court, and a licensed religious scholar authorized to provide spiritual guidance and sermons.
The bill also provides a detailed outline of the rights afforded to the perpetrator.
According to the bill, the Maldives Correctional Services will be responsible for planning and executing all matters related to the administration of the death penalty. The bill further specifies that the sentence shall be carried out by hanging, whereby a noose is placed and tightened around the convict's neck, followed by suspension until death.
Furthermore, the bill details the specific procedures for implementing the death penalty, including the parties required or entitled to be present during the execution. It also outlines the protocols for the execution process, the handover of the deceased's body to the family, and the specific circumstances under which the implementation of the sentence is prohibited.
