Waheed says Epstein’s crimes were unknown at the time
Waheed met Epstein on two occasions, in 2012 and 2014, the statement said.
Former President Mohamed Waheed said on Tuesday that he was unaware of the crimes committed by American financier Jeffrey Epstein at the time of their contact and expressed regret over the relationship.
The remarks come after emails published by United States authorities showed that Waheed communicated with Epstein on several occasions and maintained contact with him. Waheed resigned earlier on Tuesday from his position as Special Envoy of President Mohamed Muizzu following public criticism over his appointment.
In a statement issued by Waheed’s office, he said he regretted the relationship with Epstein and stated that all contact was limited to official matters. The statement said Waheed did not participate in any illegal activity.
According to the statement, neither Waheed nor members of his family had informal meetings with Epstein or attended any of his events. It said Waheed only held formal meetings with Epstein, which were attended by other government officials.
The statement said Epstein’s crimes were not known to Waheed or his family at the time. It added that Waheed was not aware of Epstein’s 2008 prison sentence or related offences and would not have continued contact had he known. Waheed met Epstein on two occasions, in 2012 and 2014, the statement said.
It also said Epstein’s advice was sought on issues facing Maldives at the time, including efforts to obtain financial support. According to the statement, the suggestion to consult Epstein came through a well-known individual based in New York. The statement added that there were no financial transactions between Waheed and Epstein.
Epstein first came under investigation in 2005, with the case gaining international attention. He was arrested again in 2019 on charges related to sex trafficking, following his earlier conviction in 2008 for offences involving minors. Epstein died in prison in August 2019.
Emails released by the United States Department of Justice show exchanges between Epstein and Waheed. The correspondence indicates that Epstein welcomed the change of government in 2012, when Mohamed Nasheed left office and Waheed assumed the presidency. The emails show that Waheed discussed the political situation at the time and sought advice. They also refer to discussions about a proposed USD 500 million loan and support related to publishing a book about Waheed.
