MDP MPs concerned over proposed changes to anti-terrorism law
Ruling party lawmakers are due to meet the Attorney General to share concerns.
15 Sep 2019, 9:00 AM
MPs of the Maldivian Democratic Party have sought a meeting with the attorney general to share concerns over proposed changes to the anti-terrorism law, MDP parliamentary group leader Ali Azim told the press on Sunday.
Sweeping changes proposed by the government to the 2015 Anti-Terrorism Act would authorise police to arrest terror suspects without a warrant, conduct invasive body searches, deny private consultations with legal counsel and detain suspects for 48 hours before taking them before a judge. The amendments also seek to criminalise expressions of support for terrorist organisations as well as the sporting of banners, photos, literature or clothes deemed a declaration of support.
Ruling party lawmakers were opposed to restricting constitutional rights, Azim told media outlets. The main concern was over granting powers to arrest suspects and enter private property without a court order, the majority leader said, adding that MDP MPs want to meet the attorney general to seek explanations and clarify reasons for the proposed changes.
Azim was not responding to calls or messages at the time of publication.
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