Corrections: Yameen violated the terms of his house arrest, will take action against him

Maldives Correctional Service’s Commissioner of Prisons Ahmed Mohamed Fulhu has stated that former President Yameen Abdul Gayyoom took part in the protest held by PPM this evening in violation of the terms of his house arrest – thus, action will be taken against him.

CP Ahmed Mohamed Fulhu stated that action will be taken against him in accordance with the law – for the violation of the terms of his house arrest.

Yameen’s party – PPM – held a nationwide protest this evening in the name of ‘Finding Justice’. PPM’s Deputy Leader Ibrahim Shujau said the purpose of the protest is to take to the streets to seek the right to justice which the Maldivian people are being denied. 

Yameen had taken part in the protest which took place at the capital Male’ City this evening – from his home. The protest saw the participation of a large number of PPM supporters and the leadership of the opposition coalition.

In this regard – he had stood near an open window of his home where the protesters could see him and waved at them. Then Yameen shook hands with some of the protesters – and the protesters had given him two flags; PPM’s and the national flag – which he continued to wave from his window.

The protestors said that Yameen's appearance at the had renewed hope amongst themselves - and brought them joy.

Yameen was found guilty of laundering USD 1 million from the sale of GA. Vodamula by the Criminal Court on November 28, 2019.  He was sentenced to 5 years in prison and fined USD 5 million. Yameen promptly appealed the conviction with the High Court, which sided against him and ruled to uphold the original sentence on January 21, 2021. 

He subsequently appealed the conviction with the Supreme Court, which is scheduled to begin appeal proceedings in September.

Yameen was serving his sentence in Maafushi Prison, but was transferred to home confinement following an outbreak of COVID-19 at the prison in April.