Maldives invites UN expert to observe judiciary after criticism
The letter reiterated the government's position that there has been no interference in the judiciary.
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The government of Maldives has extended an invitation to the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Independence of Judges and Lawyers, Margaret Satterthwaite, to observe the country’s judicial system.
This move follows criticism from international organisations and legal associations regarding the dismissal of former Supreme Court justices Dr Azmiralda Zahir and Mahaz Ali Zahir. Concerns have been raised over alleged interference by the executive in judicial matters.
In a letter signed by Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Abdulla Khaleel, the government responded to the allegations, denying any involvement by the President or the Attorney General in the dismissal proceedings. The letter stated:
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Neither the President nor the Attorney General influenced the justices.
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Claims that the Attorney General sent a message to Justice Azmiralda through a third party are false.
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Allegations that Justice Azmiralda was threatened are also denied.
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No evidence has been presented to support the above claims.
The minister invited Satterthwaite to the Maldives to observe the judiciary’s operations and assess the safeguards in place to prevent external influence.
The letter reiterated the government's position that there has been no interference in the judiciary and affirmed its stated commitment to upholding the rule of law and the authority of the Constitution.
