Yameen to attend PNF’s inaugural gathering

Former Maldivian leader Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom has received permission from Maldives Correctional Service to attend the People’s National Front (PNF)’s inaugural gathering, according to his top lawyer, former vice president Dr. Mohamed Jameel Ahmed.

Yameen, who was sentenced to 11 years in prison on December 25, 2022 on charges of bribery and money laundering in connection to the sale of V. Aarah. While he is currently under house arrest, the law prohibiting him from engaging in active politics due to his conviction.

His lawyers had filed a request with Maldives Correctional Service to permit him to attend PNF’s inaugural gathering on Monday.

A spokesperson from Maldives Correctional Service said they had sent their answer in response to the request, but declined specify what the response was.

Meanwhile, Jameel told Sun that the service had granted its permission, but declined to make any further comment.

Yameen was transferred home on October 1, 2023 – a day after President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu won the presidential election.

But less than a week after President Muizzu took office in November, Yameen left the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) – People’s National Congress (PNC) coalition – and initiated efforts to form PNF.

Yameen has appealed his conviction with the High Court. While the appellant court wrapped up its hearings months back, it has yet to deliver a verdict.

Despite the law prohibiting him from engaging in active politics due to his conviction, Yameen continues to be heavily involved in PNF’s activities, even attending party meetings and campaign events.

He has been repeatedly warned by Maldives Correctional Service over infractions.

He has also grown increasingly vocal in his criticism of President Muizzu’s administration.