Ex-Pres. Yameen’s Aarah trial reaches to closing statements stage

The main components in the trial of the money laundering and bribery case against former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayyoom in connection to the sale of V. Aarah for resort development has concluded – with trial reaching to the closing statements stage.

Yameen was charged with money laundering and taking a bribe in connection to the case in November 2021. 

He is accused of misusing his position and taking a USD 1 million bribe to facilitate the sale of Aarah to Yoosuf Naeem, a former parliamentary representative for Felidhoo constituency, and laundering the money.

The state charged Naeem with giving the bribe.

The hearing held in the case on Tuesday saw discussion regarding the evidence submitted by Naeem. Naeem had concurred the points put forth by Yameen regarding the evidence. Naeem’s lawyer had also discussed regarding the evidence submitted on behalf of Naeem.

During the previous three hearings held in the case – discussions were held regarding the evidence submitted by Yameen. The prosecution had also discussed the evidence.

Therewith, the next hearing will be on the closing statements. Criminal Court’s Chief Judge Ahmed Shakeel who is presiding over the case concluding Tuesday’s hearing said that the next hearing in the case is scheduled for November 30.

He requested all parties to prepare to deliver closing statements in one hearing. Therewith, if there is no matter which needs further clarification after the closing statements, the next hearing in the case will be to deliver the judgment.