The opposition Progressive Coalition has urged authorities to hold a fair and transparent trial for former President Abdulla Yameen.

Speaking at a press conference on Saturday, People’s National Congress (PNC) Vice President and Maavah MP Mohamed Saeed accused the state of charging Yameen for political reasons.

Saeed, the former minister, said that anti-money laundering laws were ratified during Yameen’s administration and that it was concerning that he was targeted in the MMPRC embezzlement case out of the 150 suspects.

Saeed said that the MMPRC investigative report was publicized in February 2018 but that the time since then and the transition of government show that the case has been marred with politically influence.

Also at the press conference, Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) Vice President and Naifaru MP Ahmed Shiyam also claimed that Yameen’s trial was politically motivated, and questioned why the state had waited a year to charge him.

At the conclusion of the press conference, Saeed called on Yameen supporters to join their protest on August 1.