Sajidha files suit against Mariyam Zubair over protest remarks

First Lady Sajidha Mohamed has filed a civil suit against opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) activist Mariyam Zubair, alleging that her remarks during a protest endangered the life of President Mohamed Muizzu’s son.

Previously, Sajidha had stated her intention to pursue legal action against Mariyam Zubair, who claimed that vaping was banned in the Maldives due to the president’s son. Sajidha’s lawyer, Azima Shakoor, confirmed that the case was filed on Wednesday.

In a statement, Azima said the lawsuit was filed on the grounds that Sajidha’s son had been deprived of the protection and dignity guaranteed under the International Convention for the Protection of the Rights of the Child. The case also argues that his right to protection of name and reputation, as outlined in the Constitution, had been violated.

The statement further outlined concerns that the president’s son’s safety, education, and future could be affected by the allegations.

Meanwhile, the MDP has decided to file a case against Sajidha and Azima, alleging that personal details about the president’s son were disclosed during a press conference held on behalf of Sajidha. The MDP maintains that Mariyam Zubair did not identify a specific child in her remarks.