Government approaches Supreme Court regarding alcohol and pork case!

The Attorney General (AG) Abdulla Muizz has requested the Supreme Court’s consultative opinion regarding the permission of alcohol, pork, and operation of spas in tourist resorts in Maldives.

AG Muizz said today that due to the concern expressed regarding the effects on the tourism industry following the government’s order to close spas and its intention of prohibiting alcohol and pork, a decision by a high level court is now required.

“There are certain laws which guide the operation of spas and the sale of alcohol. We therefore have to know if these actions are taken in accordance with the system,” Muizz said.

Import of alcohol and pork to the Maldives must follow the guidelines of an Act which comes under the section of Prohibited Goods.

AG said that it needs to be clarified now, if the import of these goods is allowed under this Act.

He further said that in his opinion, the operation of businesses such as spas is in accordance with the Maldivian law, and therefore “they cannot be ordered to close down”.