JSC's actions raises doubt over fairness of Yameen's trial : Lawyers

Former President Abdulla Yameen's lawyers have voiced concerns regarding the fairness of Yaameen's money-laundering trial.

Yameen is accused of laundering USD one million through the state-owned Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC), via a private company SoF, during his presidency. He is also accused of using the funds for financial gain, despite being ordered to transfer it to an escrow account under an agreement with the anti-corruption watchdog

The last hearing in the case, where both the prosecution and defense read out their closing statements, was held on October 9.

While the verdict hearing was canceled following Hailam’s suspension, the criminal court chief judge is accused of taking bribes from the defendant.

The hearing will most likely be rescheduled after the judge’s 60-day suspension.

While speaking at a press conference held by Yameen's legal team, former vice-president and Yameen's current legal representation, Dr.Mohamed Jameel Ahmed, stated that the Judicial Service Commission is stepping over their authority and has forgotten their responsibilities.

He stated that as per JSC's recent actions, it is difficult to assume that the trial will be fair as there is no guarantee that the presiding Judge will not be influenced by the JSC

He further stated that the JSC's actions are inconsistent with the procedures followed by similar institutions around the globe.

Jameel also stated that the suspension of Judge Hailam at the last minute to the trial is an abuse of the JSC's influence.

Nevertheless, Jameel said he is not worried about the verdict and called for the JSC to abide by the authority provided to them by legislation.