The imam, arrested for leading prayers in a separate congregation without the authorisation of the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, has been charged with inciting religious strife in the society.

The charges filed by the state against Hussain Thaufeeg, 34, Zurich Villa, Gaafu Alifu Vilingili, states that the accused delivered Friday sermons and led prayers in separate congregations on 19 and 26 September 2014 at Dharumavantha Rasgefaanu Mosque, which is not among the mosques designated by the ministry for Friday prayer in Male’.

The accused was charged with reference to Articles 4 (c) (2), under Article 6 (a) of the Religious Unity Act.

Prosecutor General Muhthaz Muhsin said that the case has been accepted by the Criminal Court, and that the court has also extended detention for the accused until the end of his trial.

Article 4 of the Religious Unity Act states that efforts to harm religious unity and encourage religious strife are prohibited in the Maldives; while Article 6 states that the penalty for persons convicted of such crimes is imprisonment or house arrest for a period not less than 2, and not exceeding 5 years.