Legal changes pledged to discontinue indefinite detention pending trial

Feb 5, 2024, 9:24 AM
Inmate in prison cell. -- Photo: Corrections

Inmate in prison cell. -- Photo: Corrections

Work will begin this month to end the practice of arresting suspects for criminal investigations and indefinitely detaining them before trial, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has said.

In his presidential address today, the President said the work was a campaign pledge and that necessary amendments to the law would be proposed during the current session of Parliament.

"We will begin the work of bringing an end to indefinite detention after arrest for investigation this month and amendments to the law will be submitted during the session of the People's Majlis that is starting now," he said.

Highlighting legal reforms planned by his administration, the President said the government will submit a bill to Parliament to legally change the composition of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) in order to restrict political influence over the judiciary.

"Some bills that the government intends to propose include a bill needed to establish a complete system of bail, a preventive health care bill, a mental health bill, and a bill on housing standards," the President said.

Other bills noted by the President include bills on travel agencies, urban planning, urban development, land readjustment, the sovereign development fund, expanding the real estate business and the acquisition of land on a freehold or leasehold basis.

In addition to submitting a copyright bill and amendments to the land law, the President said he has urged Parliament to expedite the passage of amendments to the freedom of assembly law currently before Parliament.

Comments

Read More

Latest News

Mental health centre opened in Kulhudhuffushi

Kulhudhuffushi City has opened "Manas Hub," a new mental health center launched by the City Council and the Australian High Commissioner. The facility aims to reduce social stigma and provide accessible support, treatment, and early intervention. This milestone marks a major step in strengthening community-based mental health services.

Audit reveals millions in losses over project given to POLCO

An audit revealed millions in losses after the Home Ministry awarded a prison project to POLCO without competitive bidding. POLCO subcontracted the work for a fraction of the price and charged MVR 2.9 million for demolition work that never occurred. The Auditor General has recommended an investigation by the Anti-Corruption Commission.

Yameen urges Eagle Hills to scrap Rasmalé project

Former President Abdulla Yameen has urged Eagle Hills to scrap the Rasmalé project, labeling it an exploitation of a "morally bankrupt" regime. He cited public resentment and controversial lease terms that suggest a permanent loss of land. The project faces heavy criticism for its financial structure and perceived lack of public support.

PG had secured release of suspect detained with film stars

Shahil Mohamed, recently arrested with several film stars for drug offenses, was previously released from pretrial detention in a two-kilogram heroin trafficking case. The Prosecutor General’s Office had requested his release due to his medical condition and length of detention. He has now tested positive for synthetic drugs.

Eagle Hills to develop 5,000 housing units in Urban Isle

UAE’s Eagle Hills will develop 5,000 housing units in Hulhumalé’s "Urban Isle" as a prerequisite for the Rasmalé Waterfront project. The $400–$500 million development features three-bedroom apartments funded by future property sales. This initiative replaces a stalled $8 billion financial center project previously planned for the same site.

Two discharged, two in critical condition after road accident

Two people are in critical condition on ventilators and two others have been discharged following a motorcycle crash in Hulhumalé. The accident occurred when a motorcycle carrying three people fled police by driving against traffic. One victim suffered a brain hemorrhage, and the unlicensed driver reportedly has an extensive criminal record.

Renovation begins at Hulhumale' synthetic track

Renovations have begun on the Hulhumale' synthetic track to upgrade it to international World Athletics standards. The project involves installing a high-quality polyurethane surface to ensure athlete records are officially recognized. Work is expected to be completed by January next year.

Newsletter

Get the latest news delivered straight to your inbox