Suoodh: Parliament has the authority to impeach President

The authority to impeach the President of Maldives lies with the People’s Majlis, says attorney Husnu Suoodh – the Attorney General of the country during former President Mohamed Nasheed’s administration.

Speaking at a press conference held at his law firm this Sunday afternoon, Suoodh said a vote of no-confidence was not enough to remove the Head of the State from power, and that he believed the President must face trial and be convicted of a crime to warrant his dismissal.

“The People’s Majlis has the proper procedure for this. There are ways the President can be removed from power. These procedures have been compromised with the revisions they made to the regulations,” said Suoodh.

Referring to the statement by Attorney General Mohamed Anil earlier today that the Supreme Court was preparing to order the dismissal of President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom, Suoodh said the Supreme Court can only decide President Yameen is not eligible to remain the country’s President.

He also referred to the court order issued by the Supreme Court on February 1 for the immediate release of all political leaders and reinstatement of 12 MPs. He said everyone was legally bound to follow court orders, and then the court should take action against anyone who advocates for the dismissal of court orders.

“The Supreme Court order may have some issues. I believe, the Attorney General can make recommendations to solve the issues after implementing it,” said Suoodh.

“Court orders must be followed. I, also believe there’s some room for improvement in the court order. The authority of the Judicial Services Commission cannot be marginalized. But every agency is legal-bound to follow the order,” said Suoodh.