Opposition calls to speed up former President Yameen's appeal case

The opposition party PPM of former President Abdulla Yameen has called to quicken the appeal case of the former president.

Former President Yameen is in prison after being found guilty of money laundering late last year. The Criminal Court sentenced him to five years in prison, a trial labeled as a sham by the opposition. The case was later appealed to the High Court.

In a statement issued today, PPM and PNC which form the opposition coalition, expressed concern that the appeal case former President was taking so long at a time when the country was in the situation of combating the Covid-19 virus.

The statement read that it was believed High Court trials could be conducted via video conference when the Parliamentary sessions were also being conducted in such a manner.

“We call on the authorities to quickly attend the appeal case of the former President Yameen in the High Court since the former President is not allowed his constitutional right to bail on the guarantee that the High Court trial would not be prolonged.” read the statement by the coalition.

The statement also read that the United Nations had called to release political prisoners since the highest risk of the virus spreading was in prisons. The coalition expressed dismay that the government was prioritizing cruelty over international calls.

“We call on the authorities to move the opposition leader, who is being unjustly punished, to house arrest and prioritize unity and let go of political enmity since the holy month of Ramadan is upon us.” read the statement.

A case where the former President is alleged to have embezzled millions is still under investigation.