President pledges end to political retaliation

President Mohamed Muizzu on Sunday affirmed that his administration will not engage in the arrest or imprisonment of political rivals.

Speaking at a Republic Day ceremony held at Dharubaaruge, the president addressed past political practices in the Maldives, focusing on the issue of political retaliation.

President Muizzu stated, "My opponent has not been arrested and imprisoned for being a political opponent in the past year or in the future."

He reflected on past instances where individuals were allegedly framed, detained, or imprisoned as a consequence of political rivalries, adding that such practices would no longer occur under his government.

He remarked that commissions set up by previous administrations, such as presidential commissions, to investigate political matters would no longer be part of his approach. However, the president clarified that cases of theft or unjust acquisition of state property would still be investigated through appropriate channels.

“There are independent institutions, a constitutional system, and a judicial system. They will address these matters within the system," he said.

President Muizzu emphasised that his government aims to avoid political pursuits that disrupt national stability by forming investigative commissions.

The president also noted that his administration is committed to maintaining judicial independence, stating that he had pledged to do so from his first day in office. He underscored that political arrests have ceased, and previously detained individuals have been released.

Rather than exerting influence over the judiciary, President Muizzu stated his focus would be on supporting the judiciary’s ability to deliver outcomes effectively.