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26th Apr 2024
Dhivehi Edition
President Yameen. Photo: TMJ
MALE, Maldives, June 4, 2023 – Former Maldivian President Abdulla Yameen is set to have his appeal case heard on June 7th, 2023, as announced by the High Court. The court scheduled the hearing two months after his legal team submitted necessary documents for the appeal.
The timing of the hearing is drawing sharp criticism from opposition members who suspect foul play. The opposition Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM), for which Yameen is the presidential candidate, believes the government might be influencing the judiciary to delay the case intentionally.
The delay, they argue, could prevent Yameen from participating in the upcoming September Presidential elections. PPM also maintains the belief that the verdict against Yameen, which was passed on 25th December 2022, convicting him of money laundering and accepting bribes, was politically motivated.
Yameen, who led the country from 2013 to 2018, was sentenced to 11 years in jail, a verdict that has added fuel to the political fire in the country.
His legal team has been steadfast in appealing the decision, which, if overturned, could have significant implications for the political landscape of the Maldives, particularly in the context of the upcoming elections.
As the country braces for the appeal hearing, all eyes will be on the High Court's decision, which could potentially shape the future of Maldivian politics.