Maldives Correctional Service (MCS) has launched an investigation after former President Abdulla Yameen, who is serving an 11-year prison sentence, visited the People's National Front (PNF) office.
Corrections media officer Aminath Yusreen Ahmed said the case was being investigated. However, she did not give further details.
Yameen went to the PNF office on Sunday night to sign up for the party. The party held a special ceremony and invited the press.
former President Abdulla Yameen joined the PNF.
This is the second such investigation since Yameen was transferred to house arrest. MCS did not say whether any action was taken over his first visit to the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) office.
Yusreen said there is no obstacle to a prisoner signing up for a political party under the Prisons and Parole Act. However, it is illegal for a person serving a sentence to participate in any political activity, she said.
Yameen was transferred to his home after being held in Maafushi jail following the election victory of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. In his victory speech after the election, Muizzu called for Yameen to be transferred home.
Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih said Yameen was transferred home to prioritise the interests of the people.
Yameen is serving an 11-year sentence for bribery and money laundering in the sale of Vaavu Aarah island while he was President. He was convicted of taking USD 1.1 million in bribes.
In addition, Yameen has been charged with bribery and money laundering for allegedly taking bribes and laundering the money in connection to the lease of Raa Fuggiri island. The case is pending in the Criminal Court.
