Maldives minister challenges country’s lawyers

Legal Affairs Minister at the President’s Office Aishath Azima Shakoor has challenged lawyers of the nation, stating there was no lawyer who can prove that Thursday’s Supreme Court ruling was one that followed the constitution.

Speaking in the rally held by ruling Progressive Party of the Maldives (PPM) Azima said that there was no way even the Supreme Court can nullify their own verdicts and that so far, no lawyer had been able to prove this, as this was not an aspect in law.

‘There is no legal means in the Maldives Constitution, by which a person’s verdict can be overturned. There is no legal means by which a lower court can review the said case. If you are capable, show me that [precedent]. Show me the article. [Anyone] can say anything. Can insult parents. Can insult children. Show [me] the law. Show [me] the legal ambit,’ Azima said.

Azima added that she had advised the President on this, as Thursday’s ruling was made outside of the legal ambit. She further noted that even the Supreme Court was not above the law.

Referring to the Constitution and the powers in it, Azima said no individual could overreach the Constitution. Azima also reflected on the roles within the state, adding those assigned important mandates must remain faithful to the state. Acting outside legal ambit can devalue law, Azima noted.