President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has on Sunday ratified the Maldives Police Service Act which ensures police officers are in line with human rights best practices.

59 lawmakers, out of the 77 present, voted in favour of the government-endorsed bill on December 6.

The Act aims to streamline policing in the country by ensuring adherence to the constitution, and establishes the fundamental principles, guidelines, roles and other aspects concerning police officers.

Under the Act, police officers are mandated to ensure the safety of all members of the public, without any discrimination or influence, and in line with human rights best practises.

The President’s Office noted that the Maldives Police Service Act also promotes professional standards within the police force and paves the way for the establishment of community-based policing services under a decentralised system of governance.

Upon ratification, the institution established as “Maldives Police Service” under the Police Act, has been renamed as “Dhivehi Fuluhunge Khidhumaiy”, however, it will still be addressed as “Maldives Police Service” in English.

The Maldives Police Service Act has now been published in the Government Gazette.

Speaker and former President, Mohamed Nasheed welcomed the ratification of the Act, stressing that the changes “have been long awaited by the people”.

Majlis approved the bill with an amendment to investigate allegations against high-ranking officers currently at service at the institution.

While the Act also details the responsibilities and mandate of the Minister of Home Affairs and the Commissioner of Police, Home Minister Imran Abdulla described it as one that will help maintain national security.