Maldives Correctional Service (MCS) decided not to allow former President Abdulla Yameen, who is serving an 11-year prison sentence for bribery and money laundering, to attend TV programs and visit political party offices during his custody, his lawyer, Adam Shameem has said.
In a post on X today, Shameem said there was no legal obstacle to granting the requested relief.
Yameen had requested to relax the ban on going to TV stations and participating in TV programs and sought permission to give interviews to journalists who visit his house or office.
The second request was for permission to attend meetings at the party office.
MCS denied the requests claiming that there were legal obstacles. However, they did not disclose any further details.
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.
