Yameen criticises SC appointments, alleges political influence
Yameen criticised the appointments, claiming they were politically motivated.
Former President Abdulla Yameen has alleged that the current composition of the Supreme Court bench is the result of political appointments made by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu.
Speaking at a rally held by the People's National Front (PNF) Thursda night, Yameen commented on recent changes to the Supreme Court. His remarks follow the dismissal of Justices Azmiralda Zahir and Mahaz Ali Zahir after disciplinary proceedings were initiated by the Judicial Service Commission (JSC). Justice Husnu Al Suood also resigned following his suspension.
In response to the vacancies, the Parliament appointed High Court Justice Mohamed Saleem and former High Court Justice Abdulla Hameed to the Supreme Court bench.
Yameen criticised the appointments, claiming they were politically motivated.
"There is no one in the Supreme Court now whom the people trust. Those sitting there now are political gifts," he said.
He further alleged that Justice Saleem had delayed proceedings related to the MMPRC corruption case concerning V. Aarah lease for tourism, which ultimately affected his ability to contest the last presidential election. According to Yameen, Saleem’s appointment to the Supreme Court was a form of reward.
He said legal experts had questioned Saleem’s qualifications and added that there were other more qualified individuals who could have been appointed.
"Three more capable judges were removed, and Salim was brought in," he said.
Yameen also referred to an ongoing case at the Supreme Court concerning the prosecution’s motion to overturn his 11-year prison sentence related to the Aarah transaction and to order a retrial. He expressed doubts over receiving a fair hearing from the current bench.
The case is presently pending after proceedings resumed at the Criminal Court but were later adjourned.
