In Addu rally, Yameen says his cases can be tried but no grounds for imprisonment

Former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom says there is no legal basis to imprison him even if his cases are sent to trial.

Speaking at a People’s National Front (PNF) rally in Hithadhoo, Addu City, Yameen said one of the most common questions he hears from the public is whether his name will appear on the ballot for the 2028 presidential election.

In response, he said he was leaving the matter to Allah, adding that even if attempts were made to implicate him further, there would be no grounds to jail him.

“There is no reason to put me in jail. My cases can be sent to trial. They can be sent to court and investigated,” Yameen said.

He urged supporters to go out and meet the public, saying competitive elections require active engagement. Yameen also called on his political rivals to attend community meetings and listen directly to the concerns of the people.

Criticising President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s administration, Yameen said a leader has no license to “joke with the people” or mislead them. He said Maldivians were becoming poorer while the lives of those close to the government were improving.

Commenting on the Cabinet, Yameen said he did not see any minister who could even indirectly speak about what President Muizzu was doing. Expecting meaningful change from the government in the remaining period, he said, was “like waiting for a mirage”.

Yameen said he met people from all walks of life during his visit to Addu City and had not heard of any positive work done by the current administration from any resident he spoke to.

He said the youth of Addu primarily seek housing and income-generating employment opportunities, adding that the government should prioritise the development of society as a whole rather than halting projects and granting political favours.

Yameen also urged the government to abandon the notion of seeking a second term through the misuse of police and state powers. He said small businesses and Maldivian students overseas were facing severe hardship due to rising commodity prices and limited dollar availability.