Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusaan has stated it is important for the public to be assured that decision on releasing convicts are independent decisions of the courts, not the government.
In a social media post, Minister Ihusaan emphasised the crucial role of the judiciary in determining the arrest and detention periods of law offenders. He made the remarks on social media followed the recent release of a 69-year-old male pending trial, accused of sexually assaulting his granddaughter on an island in the Maldives. The decision by the Magistrate court sparked outrage on social media platforms.
Further, the miniter clarified that neither the president nor the government had any involvement in the court's decision, reiterating the independence of the judicial branch. He addressed misconceptions and false rumors surrounding the case, emphasising the absence of government influence in the decision-making process. He assured the public that the Prosecutor General's Office (PGO) would appeal the court's decision.
Speaking to PSM News on the matter, PGO disclosed ongoing efforts to appeal court decisions, announcing plans to appeal the High Court's decision the following day. President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu condemned the release of individuals arrested and convicted of child sexual abuse, labeling it entirely unacceptable.