Ex-Vp Dr Jameel takes impeachment case to Supreme Court

Former Vice President Dr Mohamed Jameel Ahmed, on Thursday, submitted a case to Supreme Court claiming his dismissal as Vice President by a no-confidence motion passed in parliament in 2015 was unconstitutional.

He was the first Vice President for former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom.

In 2015 he was impeached amidst allegations of attempting to align with the opposition to oust and replace Yameen as president.

Additionally, Dr Jameel faced major accusations that he was linked to the infamous protests on May Day protests held by the opposition on May 1, 2015.

However, Dr Jameel claims that his dismissal was caused by false accusations.

Following his impeachment, the former VP left Maldives, stating that he was flying to Sri Lanka for medical purposes. But he went on and took residence in United Kingdom, and did not return until President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih was elected in September.

According to Dr Jameel, he did not return as the administration of that time was plotting to arrest him. He noted that detention of political leaders was commonplace at the time.

As per local media Mihaaru, the former VP claims his impeachment was undeniably unconstitutional due to the parliament being only one component of the three separated powers in the Presidential governing system.

At that time, ruling Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) held majority in Parliament. He also said that the case was rushed to completion without regarding any policies or regulations assured by the constitution.

Speaking about the no-confidence motion passed against him, Jameel maintained his innocence and claimed that the case was deliberately rigged and in violation of his rights guaranteed by the constitution.

“I was impeached in violation of the conduct specified by the constitution. I was not allowed an opportunity to respond. Legal representation through a lawyer is a right that can not be negated, however even that and Article 100 of the constitution was violated.”

Furthermore, Dr Jameel expressed that there are many concerns about the case and stated that as the reason for appealing in Supreme Court.