South Asians for Human Rights (SAHR), a democratic regional network expresses its shock and concern over the arrest of and physical assault on former Maldivian President Mohamed Nasheed. He was arrested on 22 February 2015 on terrorism charges and has been refused bail. The manner of his arrest during which he was forcibly dragged to Court was degrading and a ruthless misuse of police powers. The former President has been arrested under counter terrorism laws on charges of anti-state activities for ordering the arrest of a senior judge Abdullah Mohamed in 2012 which led to street riots in the Maldives. Linking the ordering of the arrest of a senior judge with terrorism and anti state activities smacks of political vendetta and a blatant misuse of counter terrorism laws.
SAHR calls upon the government of the Maldives to ensure that political considerations does not vitiate the trial and the former President is tried with adherence to fair trial standards guaranteed under international human rights standards. SAHR also urges the government of Maldives to respect the rights and dignity of former President Mohamed Nasheed throughout the proceedings.
Hina Jilani – Chairperson
Dr. Nimalka Fernando – Co-Chairperson