Former Attorney General Dr. Mohammed Munawwar, who led the opposition's efforts to challenge the delineation of the disputed maritime boundary with Mauritius, is providing advisory support to the current government's pursuit of a review of the UN maritime tribunal's ruling from last year.

In April of the preceding year, the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) issued a ruling on the border dispute between Maldives and Mauritius, partitioning the territory between the two nations as follows:

- Maldives: 47,232 square kilometers

- Mauritius: 45,331 square kilometers

Despite Maldives securing a marginally larger portion of the contested territory, concerns were raised by the opposition regarding the relinquishment of a significant section of the nation's southern economic zone. Eminent legal figures, including Dr. Munawwar, asserted that the government could have presented a more robust case before the tribunal, with some suggesting potential bias towards Mauritius.

Following the electoral victory of the PPM-PNC coalition led by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu in the previous November, a specialized committee was established, seeking the assistance of foreign experts.

The Attorney General's Office announced that Attorney General Ahmed Usham has sought Dr. Munawwar's legal counsel in maritime law. Dr. Munawwar, who served as Attorney General from 1993 to 2003, holds a doctorate in international law and the law of the seas. He played a pivotal role in drafting the Maldivian Maritime Areas Act and possesses extensive expertise in maritime law.

The final report, in addition to details about the appointed legal experts and their fees, will be presented to President Muizzu and Parliament following a decision by the Cabinet.

Previously, a UK legal expert and a marine law expert based in Malta were appointed to scrutinize the ITLOS decision, identify issues in Maldives' submissions during the case hearings, and offer legal guidance on future steps. Their recommendations will inform the committee, chaired by former Attorney General Mohammed Anil, in compiling a report for submission to the Cabinet.