Zaya granted 10 days to appoint lawyer in MDP protest case

Criminal Court has granted Fathimath Zahiyya (Zaya), North Hulhumalé constituency councilor in Male’ City Council, 10 days to appoint a lawyer in the case involving charges filed against her in connection with the ‘Lootuvairi’ rally held by opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) on the night of October 3 last year.

Zaya is charged with obstructing a law enforcement officer from performing their legal duties.

Alongside her, seven others have also been charged in connection with the same case, including MDP’s Kendhoo MP Mauroof Zakir.

Criminal Court held the preliminary hearing in the case against Zaya on Wednesday. During the proceedings, Zaya requested 30 days to appoint legal representation; however, the court granted a 10-day period.

Prior to entering the hearing, Zaya stated that she would not be intimidated by court summons or legal proceedings. She also accused President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu was attempting to silence her by exerting undue influence over the police and the judiciary.

MDP’s ‘Lootuvaifi’ anti-corruption rally kicked off with hundreds of protestors at 09:00 pm October 3 from the Artificial Beach in the Henveiru district of Male’. But as the protestors attempted to march along the Majeedhee Magu, the police accused them of diverting from the pre-approved route and blocked their path. Clashes ensued as protestors attempted to force their way through, with the police using pepper spray and sound cannons to control the crowd. 

Eight protestors were taken into custody from the demonstration, while at least three others were arrested in the ensuing days. However, the Prosecutor General’s Office has noted that there is insufficient evidence to proceed with charges against some of them.