SC overlooks Yameen's request for nomination deadline extension
The EC is also against granting such an extension.
By
Ahmed Sadhoof Moosa
Supreme Court on Sunday ruled that former President Abdulla Yameen will not be able to contest the September 9 presidential election, and concluded the case without deciding on his request to issue an order granting PPM more time to field an alternate candidate.
At the hearing of Yameen's case held on Friday, Yameen's lawyer sought an order to allow the party more time to field a candidate from PPM if Yameen cannot contest the election.
However, the EC is also against granting such an extension. The EC Secretary General told the Supreme Court at Friday's hearing:
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If the deadline is extended, a president may not be appointed on the date announced
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It will also disrupt the campaigning of candidates and their rights
Justice Husnu Al Suood, whose opinion was seconded by seven judges of the court, upheld the Elections Commission's decision that Yameen is ineligible to contest the election as he has a declared debt and is serving an 11-year jail sentence.
The judges, however, did not rule on the request filed by Yameen to extend the nomination period.
The party will now have until 2pm on Monday if it wants to nominate a candidate.
Meanwhile, PPM's affiliate, PNC has elected Male mayor Dr Mohamed Muizz as a backup candidate, on the instructions of Yameen.
PPM MP from Faresmathoda constituency Hussain Mohamed Latheef has been appointed as Muizz's running mate.
However, following the verdict, Yameen asked PPM to boycott the election.
PPM-PNC met after Yameen's directive and decided to call a senate vote on boycotting the election. A heated senate meeting is currently underway.
