Corrections threatens to cancel agreement with Yameen

Maldives Correctional Service warned former Maldivian president Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom on Wednesday that it will break its agreement with him, if the PPM leader continues to violate the terms of the agreement, which has allowed concessions for his confinement.

Yameen was sentenced to 11 years in prison for money laundering and bribery charges in connection to the sale of V.Aarah on December 26, 2022.

He was transferred from his cell in Maafushi Prison to his home in Male’ City on October 1 – a day after PPM-PNC’s presidential candidate Dr. Mohamed Muizzu won the Maldivian presidential election.

On Friday, Correctional Service eased the terms of Yameen’s confinement, allowing him to leave his home for medical care related purposes.

And on Monday, the service said that it had granted additional easements, that extended to Yameen being allowed to leave home for exercise, and to meet people that he “absolutely” wishes to – after giving prior notice to the service.

With the decision, Yameen started getting actively involved in politics, attending and addressing gatherings at the PPM headquarters on Sunday, and again, on Monday.

A spokesperson from Correctional Service said on Wednesday that they have noticed Yameen had been breaching the terms of the agreement.

The service said it has warned Yameen to adhere to the agreement, and told him that they will cancel the agreement if he continues to breach it.

Maldives Prisons and Parole Act bans convicts from involvement in political activities.

Yameen’s active engagement in political activities has resulted in criticism against the Correctional Service, with many questioning whether Yameen is above the law.