MP Azim denies obstruction charge

Medhu-Henveyru MP Ali Azim has denied the charge of obstruction of a police officer, at a hearing at Criminal Court today.

Presenting the case, the State Prosecutor said that Azim refused to leave the area after being asked to do so repeatedly by police officers when protesters started throwing stones at police officers during a protest at the junction of Majeedee Magu and Alikilegefaanu Magu on 22 February 2015.

Azim requested to be given ten days to appoint a lawyer, but was granted only five days by the presiding judge, Abdulla Nasheed.

The penalty for obstruction of a police officer is six months in prison or a fine of MVR 12,000.

Azim would not lose his parliament seat even if he is convicted of this offence.

Article 73 (c) of the Constitution states that a person shall be disqualified as an MP if he is sentenced to a term exceeding twelve months following a conviction.