Former President Abdulla Yameen, who is currently under house arrest despite being convicted of bribery and money laundering and sentenced to 11 years in prison, has taken part in a campaign event for a People’s National Front (PNF)-backed candidate.
The PNF has not yet registered as a political party but is fielding several candidates for the parliamentary elections. The campaign hall of Ahmed Latheef, who is contesting for the Hulhumale' North constituency, was officially opened tonight.
Yameen attended the event along with former Vice President Dr. Mohamed Jameel Ahmed and his son and co-founder of the PNF, Zain Abdulla Yameen.
Adhadhu reporters at the event saw Yameen greeting and speaking with supporters who had gathered for the event.
Yameen did not make an official address at the event. However, Jameel, who is his lead lawyer, criticized the judiciary and the government in his speech.
Yameen, who is under house arrest, attends PNF office meetings in Male'. Although he does not speak at the podium, he sits in the audience and asks questions to those who speak during the meetings.
Most of his questions criticize the policies of the current government. He is also working to increase the number of PNF members.
Yameen has not been permitted to participate in political activities but no actions have been taken against him for attending political events. Corrections have not responded to the matter.
