Yameen: Judiciary in a worse state at present than the Maumoon era

Former president Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom, on Sunday night, said that the state of Maldives’ judiciary has deteriorated further than it had during the administration of his half-brother, former president Maumoon Abdul Gayoom.

Addressing a town hall meeting organized by his party, the People's National Front (PNF), Yameen said that judges of high caliber are no longer sitting in Maldivian courts, whether be the High Court, Criminal Court, and even the Supreme Court.

He pointed out the abrupt suspension of former Supreme Court justices, Husnu Al Suood, Mahaz Ali Zahir, and Dr. Azmiralda Zahir last year and the subsequent resignation of Suood and the dismissal of Mahaz and Azmiralda.

"Those capable there, have they not been removed by making various excuses?
 he said, adding, “Once the case regarding the loss of parliamentary seats were submitted, certain individuals were labeled as 'saboteurs' and they kicked out.”

Yameen further questioned whether the current judges possess the expertise required to effectively administer the courts and raised concerns regarding their integrity.

He stressed the importance of establishing clear deadlines for resolving major cases before the courts. Referring to the Criminal Court’s ‘gag order’ as an example, Yameen argued that such cases should be concluded within 72 hours.

"The entire Maldivian population cannot be kept silenced indefinitely. If the highest court upholds such a decision, we will comply, but there must be a resolution. Even the 'India Out' slogan was “parked” without a final decision; a definitive ruling on such matters is essential," Yameen stated.

He also highlighted that financial disputes often remain unresolved in the courts for years, arguing that the need for timely judgments extends beyond criminal proceedings.

Yameen expressed concern over the conduct of individuals entrusted with upholding the law, saying it raises serious questions. He also questioned the rationale behind restricting individuals from traveling while their cases remain pending before the Criminal Court.

According to Yameen, numerous issues of a similar nature continue to exist within the judicial system.

"Therefore, the Maldives is not progressing; we are taking twenty steps backward. This is not a cause for celebration. We have regressed to a state worse than the early years of President Maumoon’s era. These are very distressing circumstances," he said.

Yameen clarified that his remarks should not be interpreted as a personal attack on President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. He maintained that the Maldives is currently in a vulnerable position, regardless of which sector is examined.

"Maldivians are not a people who deserve to be in this position. We are resource-rich, and we have educated, intellectual, and hardworking individuals. The current failure lies with the leadership and their advisors. Therefore, without a fundamental change, this situation cannot be reformed," he concluded.