Maldives President Abdulla Yameen lifts state of emergency

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Wednesday, November 11, 2015

Abdullah Yameen, President of the Maldives, yesterday lifted the state of emergency he imposed on his nation last week.

One of over 1,000 islands that make up the Maldives.
Image: Timo Newton-Syms.

Attorney General Mohamed Anil cited progress in an investigation into the bombing of Yameen's speedboat in September. The state of emergency was imposed last Wednesday with Yameen reporting security concerns.

The move proved controversial. The opposition Democrats accused the President of political motivations and using the powers to block a rally planned to demand ex-President Mohamed Nasheed, Democratic leader's, release. A Democrat statement said "It appears that Yameen is willing to make up threats about the nation's security in order to settle political scores[...] He has failed and should step down."

Vice President Ahmed Adeeb was impeached and removed from office during the state of emergency. He is accused of involvement in the attack. After the ending of emergency rule a midnight vote in Parliament last night saw Prosecutor General Muhthaz Muhsin dismissed by a heavy majority. The reasons for the vote have not been publicised. The opposition refused to attend.

Yameen also came under international pressure, including from the US, Sri Lanka, UK, and EU. The emergency provisions included the ability for authorities to search homes and people without formalities, restrictions on travelling around the nation of islands, and restrictions on the right to assemble.


Sources