Only one head of state to attend Maldives independence celebrations

While President Sirisena had accepted President Abdulla Yameen’s invitation, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif was unable to attend “because of certain events in his country.” An invitation for India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi is still open, foreign minister said.

Jailed ex-defense minister brought to Malé for medical treatment

Rumors swirled in Malé that the retired colonel’s 11 year jail-term may be commuted to house arrest, as part of ongoing negotiations between the opposition and the government. But a family member said Nazim was taken back to the low-security ‘Asseyri’ jail in Himmafaushi about an hour after his doctor’s consultation.

Indian arrested on child abuse charges, MP seeks publication of sex offenders registry

Opposition Jumhooree Party MP Abdulla Riyaz has meanwhile asked the parliament’s government oversight to investigate the failure to publicise a mandatory national registry of child sex offenders.

Elderly man found in Malé lagoon “died of natural causes”

A 71-year-old man identified as Mohamed Jaleel from Galolhu Hemlock was found dead floating in the lagoon in Malé’s northern waterfront last night. The police said the elderly man appears to have died of natural causes.

Comment: Did former Maldives leader receive a fair trial?

In such a politically charged case, media reporting can take a sensationalist and selective approach, writes Toby Cadman. “As with all cases, there are two sides to any argument, but the government’s position has not been given any attention and the offence for which the former president was convicted has been unnecessarily trivialized.”

Journalist’s family backs independent inquiry into disappearance

Minivan News journalist Ahmed Rilwan’s family has supported the opposition’s call for an independent inquiry into his disappearance a year ago in a Malé suburb.

CSC to challenge ruling on sick leave allowance

Criticism mounts against Supreme Court

Verdict in ‘airport protest’ delayed to August 6

Five arrested for sexually abusing a 14-year-old girl

Home minister vows to keep ex president in jail

US shines spotlight on missing Maldives journalist

Opposition, police raise fears of violence on May Day

Rival demonstrations over Nasheed’s trial in Malé

Maldives slides in RSF press freedom index to 112th place

Adeeb denies connection with former Raajje TV journalist Asward

MNDF to provide security for former Police Commissioner Riyaz

Majlis’ Ibthihaal investigation postponed until end of recess

Former Defence Minister arrested on illegal weapons charge

Maldives not the best habitat for crocodiles, says EPA