Qasim’s hearing closed to media

Criminal Court has closed Leader of Jumhoory Party (JP), Maamingli MP Qasim Ibrahim’s hearing scheduled for this Thursday.

Qasim has been charged with attempted bribery, using influence in executing responsibilities of an official position and attempting to influence a voter.

“Sun” has been informed the decision to close the hearing to the media and public was taken independently by Criminal Court.

Qasim has been summoned to court for 11:30 am, this Thursday.

Meanwhile, two of Qasim’s lawyers – Hisaan Hussain and Abdulla Shafeeq – have been barred from entering the court for the hearing.

The court said the two lawyers were barred because they had made comments which created a negative image regarding the integrity of the establishment.

Qasim was charged with attempted bribery in reference to Article 510 of the Penal Code – an offense which carries a maximum sentence of eight years in prison.

He said charged with using influence in executing responsibilities of an official position in reference to Article 511 of Penal Code and charged with attempting to influence a voter in reference to Article 540 of Penal Code.

The two offenses carry a maximum sentence of four years in prison.