Update on the Current Situation in the Maldives (21/03/2018): Prosecutor General’s Office files charges at the Criminal Court

Following the investigations carried out by the Maldives Police Service, regarding the attempt to unlawfully overthrow the lawfully established government, the Prosecutor General’s Office has filed charges against 11 individuals at the Criminal Court.

The Prosecutor General’s Office has issued a statement today, regarding the issue.

President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom, on 5 February 2018 declared a State of Emergency by Presidential Decree No. 2018/3, under Article 253 of the Constitution of the Republic of Maldives.

As per the Presidential Decree, the state of emergency was enforced in order to protect the peace and welfare of all citizens and the country, following the events that unfolded in relation to the Supreme Court Order No. 2018/SC-SJ/01, issued on 1 February 2018; which has resulted in; the disruption of the functions of the executive power and the State institutions vested with specific mandates under the Constitution, the infringement of national security and public interest, and if implemented, which would potentially lead to an undermining of the supremacy of the Constitution of the Republic of Maldives.

Despite the declaration of the state of emergency, there will be no enforcement of a curfew; and general movements, services and businesses will not be affected.