President Vows Lasting Solution to Prolonged Pre-Trial Detention

News

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has reaffirmed his administration's strong commitment to resolving the issue of prolonged pre-trial detention in the Maldives, calling it a deeply concerning matter that demands urgent, long-term intervention. His remarks were made during the latest episode of the Rayyithunnaa Eku podcast.

Emphasising that expedited investigations are the only enduring solution, the President acknowledged the judiciary’s role in this process, while assuring that the Government will provide infrastructure, administrative support, and resources to facilitate faster judicial proceedings. He cited the ongoing construction of a new court complex in Hulhumalé, which will significantly increase courtroom capacity and enable multiple trials to proceed simultaneously.

The President revealed that over 300 individuals are currently in prolonged pre-trial detention, with some cases exceeding six years in custody, a situation he described as unacceptable.

As part of broader judicial reform, President Dr Muizzu reiterated plans to establish a composite prison system that meets international standards. He acknowledged deficiencies in current detention conditions and stressed the need to uphold human dignity. The Government is currently conducting feasibility studies for a new, modern detention facility, and is actively seeking investments to bring this long-term solution to fruition.

In the short term, the President said that at least one-third of the pre-trial detention cases are being reviewed by the Maldives Police Service, the Prosecutor General’s Office, and the Attorney General’s Office. These reviews include potential monitored releases using electronic tagging, and the dismissal of cases where evidence is insufficient or the offences are minor.

Reaffirming a key manifesto pledge, President Muizzu stressed the urgent need to reform the bail system, calling it both expensive and inaccessible. He clarified that the proposed reforms would only apply to non-major offences, and exclude serious crimes, including child sexual abuse.

The President also highlighted the two national judicial forums held this year, which engaged key stakeholders both within and outside the judiciary to collaboratively shape a path forward for judicial reform.

President Muizzu concluded by assuring the public that lasting, humane, and efficient solutions to address prolonged pre-trial detention remain a top priority for his administration.