Yameen opposes death penalty in the Maldives, citing judges lack impartiality

Former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom has voiced his opposition to the implementation of the death penalty, arguing that the current Maldivian judges lack impartiality.   

Speaking at Thursday night’s townhall meeting of his party, the People's National Front (PNF), Yameen alleged that the current judges lack impartiality. He argued that, under such circumstances, it would be inappropriate to entrust the judiciary with the authority to impose death sentences.

"I was previously an advocate for the enforcement of the death penalty. However, after witnessing the lack of impartiality among judges, I am now opposed to it," Yameen remarked.

He further stated that the implementation of the death penalty is no longer part of his political platform.

Yameen's remarks come after President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu announced in late March that the Attorney General's Office is drafting dedicated legislation to facilitate the implementation of the death penalty.

Earlier that month, amendments to the Drug Act came into force, allowing the death penalty for individuals convicted of importing specified types of narcotics above prescribed quantities. Despite the legal provisions, no individual has been sentenced to death under the amended law to date.