Opposition alliance calls on Minister of Home Affairs

The opposition coalition, consisting of Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) and People's National Congress (PNC), on Thursday, sought an audience with Minister of Home Affairs Imran Abdulla.

During the discussion, the opposition requested authorities to ensure that jailed former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom is guaranteed his fundamental rights and services while detained.

The move was followed by the alliance's visit to various institutions this Wednesday, including the Maldives Police Service as well as Maldives Correctional Service (MCS), calling for the release of the convicted former president.

However, the coalition was unable to meet with the heads of the institutions during their efforts prior to Thurday's meeting with the minister, which was also attended by the Commissioner of Police Mohamed Hameed.

Despite the alleged lack of cooperation by state parties to meet with opposition forces, PNC's President Abdul Raheem stated that the coalition would remain steadfast in their efforts to ensure the rights of the former president.

During a press conference held Wednesday, Abdul Raheem noted great difficulties in holding the incumbent administration accountable when it does not walk the talk, criticizing President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's address on Eid al-Adha, which called to establish talks with opposition forces.

The opposition raised concerns over MCS denying Yameen's legal team an audience with the former president. However, MCS has previously refuted the claims.