Male, Maldives – In a dramatic escalation of the ongoing political crisis, the Maldives Parliament has voted to impeach two Supreme Court judges. The decision comes amid growing concerns about judicial independence and President Mohamed Muizzu’s push to solidify power through controversial constitutional amendments.
Judges Impeached in Key Vote in Maldives Parliament
On Wednesday, the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC), which holds a supermajority in Parliament, passed the motion to remove Justices Azmiralda Zahir and Mahaz Ali Zahir. The vote passed with 68 in favor and 11 against.
The judges face allegations of abuse of power. However, many critics believe the move is politically motivated.
Protests Erupt Outside Maldives Parliament
As the vote proceeded, dozens of opposition supporters gathered outside Parliament. They called for President Muizzu’s resignation and demanded an end to what they called a “witch hunt” against the judiciary.
Suspensions Tied to Anti-Defection Law
This latest move follows the earlier suspension of the two justices and Justice Husnu al-Suood by the Judicial Services Commission (JSC). The JSC, which is dominated by Muizzu’s allies, claimed the judges lobbied to secure the release of Azmiralda’s husband, Ismail Latheef.
Latheef was arrested in December during a raid on a spa in Male. He was accused of soliciting a prostitute. However, the Criminal Court found no evidence and released him the next day.
Constitutional Case Looms Over Impeachment
At the time of his arrest, the Supreme Court was set to hear a petition against the anti-defection amendments ratified by President Muizzu. These amendments force lawmakers to vacate their seats if they switch or leave their political parties.
Muizzu argues the changes are necessary for political stability. However, opponents say the law undermines democracy by crushing dissent and weakening checks and balances.
Judges Denounce Political Interference
Both Azmiralda and Mahaz have rejected the allegations. In a strong statement, Azmiralda called the impeachment an “attack on the Maldivian judiciary.”
She added, “My hope is that one day, when the rule of law is restored, those responsible for dismantling the Supreme Court will be held accountable.”
Justice Suood, who resigned earlier, also accused the executive of exerting pressure on the judiciary. He claimed President Muizzu and Attorney General Ahmed Usham tried to influence court rulings in their favor.
Government Denies Interference
President Muizzu strongly denied meddling in the judiciary during a 14-hour news conference on May 3.
“I do not interfere with the judiciary. I have never done so,” he said. The Attorney General echoed the same, stating the suspensions were lawful and not politically motivated.
UN, Rights Groups Raise Alarm
The United Nations and various human rights organizations have voiced concern. Margaret Satterthwaite, UN Special Rapporteur on judicial independence, said the disciplinary actions violate fair trial principles and judicial autonomy.
“These proceedings appear aimed at obstructing judicial review of the anti-defection measures,” she warned.
Supreme Court Paralysis Raises Stability Fears
Since the suspensions, the Maldives Supreme Court has come to a standstill. Key constitutional cases, including the challenge to the anti-defection law, are on hold.
Observers fear that the political turmoil could lead to further unrest in the island nation, which has a history of coups, disputed elections, and political repression.
Maldives Parliament – People’s Majlis of Maldives
Canada: Anita Anand Becomes Canada’s First Hindu Foreign Affairs Minister
Bangladesh: Nobel Laurate Yunus Govt bans opposition party Awami League Under Anti-Terrorism Law