Sheikh Imran’s terrorism trial resumes with heated hearing
Adhaalath Party leader Sheikh Imran Abdulla’s speech at an anti-government demonstration in May constitutes terrorism, state prosecutors insisted today at a hearing that saw heated exchanges between the presiding judge and defence lawyers.
17 Jan 2016, 9:00 AM
Adhaalath Party leader Sheikh Imran Abdulla’s calls on President Abdulla Yameen to negotiate with the opposition during an anti-government demonstration in May constitutes terrorism, state prosecutors insisted today.
Imran’s terrorism trial, which resumed today after a five-month hiatus, saw heated exchanges between the presiding judge and defence lawyers. Imran is accused of inciting violence at the historic, 20,000-strong May Day rally.
He was charged under article two of the 1990 Anti-Terrorism Act, which states that promoting fear amongst the public or causing destruction of property are acts of terrorism.
At today’s hearing, state prosecutors argued that parts of Imran’s speech, including calling for protesters to perform the dusk prayer at the Islamic Centre – located in front the restricted Republic Square area in Malé – constitutes terrorism.
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