MDP leaders released from detention under emergency powers
Leadership figures were arrested in the buildup to the March 16 mass protest after police alleged there were plans to overthrow the government by inciting unrest and violence in the capital.
22 Mar 2018, 9:00 AM
Several Maldivian Democratic Party members detained under emergency powers were released without charge on Wednesday.
Leadership figures including MDP Vice President Mohamed Shifaz, former MP Ilyas Labeeb, and several council members were arrested in the build-up to the March 16 mass protest after police alleged there were plans to overthrow the government by inciting unrest and violence in the capital.
With constitutional due process rights suspended, the detainees were not informed of charges or taken before a judge within 24 hours when they were arrested. Their release came ahead of the expiry of the 45-day state of emergency on Thursday night.
Ilyas Labeeb and MP Eva Abdulla’s husband Ahmed Shahid were arrested on March 8 after Special Ops officers raided the MDP office. Later in the day, activist Ilham Hussain and businessman Abdul Majid were arrested from inside restaurants.
Become a member
Get full access to our archive and personalise your experience.
Already a member?
Discussion
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!
No comments yet. Be the first to join the conversation!
Join the Conversation
Sign in to share your thoughts under an alias and take part in the discussion. Independent journalism thrives on open, respectful debate — your voice matters.
