Opposition says India influenced Yameen's trial
The opposition has alleged that several illegalities were found throughout the trial.
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By
Aminath Shifleen
The opposition on Sunday accused India of interfering in the trial of former president Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom, who was convicted of bribery and money laundering.
Criminal Court on Sunday ruled against former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom on charges of corruption in the lease deal of Aarah island:
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Yameen to be jailed for four years for accepting bribe
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Sentenced to seven years in jail for money laundering
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Imposed a fine of $5 million
Condemning the verdict, the PPM/PNC coalition said in a press release Sunday evening that it has been reported that indian diplomats in the Maldives have directly influenced the trial. It was also alleged that they were obstructing a fair trial.
The opposition's press release said:
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Yameen's sentence is cruel, illegal and political
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It was a verdict to prevent him from contesting in the upcoming elections.
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It was a verdict of political vendetta and vengeance in connivance with a foreign state.
The opposition has alleged that several illegalities were found throughout the trial. It said the state had intervened and interfered in the case. The opposition also said that the fact that the names of the family members of the trial judge have been recommended for important political posts is also proof of major influence on the trial.
With their belief that this trial and verdict is a result of political vendetta against their presidential candidate, Abdulla Yameen, they demanded his immediate release without conditions in the press release.
