Civil Court rules Colonel Nasheed must settle MVR 4 million DRP debt

The Civil Court has ruled that former Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP) leader Mohamed “Colonel” Nasheed is personally liable for a debt of MVR 4 million owed by the now‑dissolved party.

The judgment, issued by Judge Azfa Abdul Ghafoor, orders Nasheed to pay former Kudahuvadhoo MP Ahmed Amir for services provided by two video production companies owned by Amir. The companies supplied filming, editing, and equipment for DRP activities between 2007 and 2009.

Although the DRP had accumulated an additional MVR 16.3 million in fines for non‑payment, the High Court previously ruled that only the original service fees should be paid. The case later reached the Supreme Court, but the party was dissolved while proceedings were ongoing after it failed to meet the requirements of a political party.

When the DRP was dissolved, it carried significant outstanding debt. The Elections Commission determined that the individual leading the party at the time of dissolution would be responsible for settling its liabilities. Nasheed, who was serving as party president at the time, did not respond to the case, leading the Civil Court to proceed in his absence.

The court has ordered Nasheed to pay MVR 4.04 million within 14 days.