Commonwealth condemns Afrasheem killing

The Commonwealth has condemned the remorseless killing of Member of Parliament for Ungoofaaru Constituency and renowned religious scholar, Dr Afrasheem Ali.

A statement issued by the Commonwealth says that the Commonwealth Secretary-General's Special Envoy for Maldives, Sir Donald McKinnon, has expressed deep sadness in learning of the killing of Dr Afrasheem Ali.

The statement quotes Sir Donald, “I condemn this senseless act of violence, and send my sincere condolences to Dr Afrasheem's family, friends and colleagues at this difficult time.”

The Commonwealth stressed that the tragedy underscores even more sharply, the importance of working together in unity for a peaceful and tolerant society where the rule of law and human rights are respected.

Dr Afrasheem was found stabbed to death last Monday night near his residence.

Police have arrested four men and one woman, and said that the investigation has made good progress.

Police have not revealed any details of those arrested in relation to this crime, as doing so might obstruct the investigation.

Dr Afrasheem had been threatened several times prior to his murder, including once when he was at a mosque with his son.

Several politicians and scholars had made statements which incited hatred in society towards Dr Afrasheem.

Crowds gathered for the state funeral held for him last Tuesday.