Jumhooree Party's (JP) Leader Qasim Ibrahim's Spokesperson Abdulla Ameen said serving former President Abdulla Yameen's justice soon was important to ensure the success of the next five years.
Ameen made these remarks during a campaign event for Qasim, who is running as Jumhooree Party's presidential candidate in the upcoming presidential elections.
"I believe that delivering timely justice for PPM's presidential candidate is crucial for stabilizing the country's political landscape and ensuring the success of the next five years for locals," the former Health Minister said at an event at Sultan Park.
"Therefore, I consider it crucial for responsible authorities to swiftly administer justice to the party's presidential candidate and seek a resolution."
Yameen has been incarcerated since December 25, 2022, following his conviction for accepting a USD 1 million in bribes in the Vaavu atoll Aarah lease and using the money for money laundering. While two appeal hearings have taken place in the High Court, Yameen urged the need for the court to expedite and thoroughly conduct the hearing during Thursday's hearing.
Yameen had requested that the hearings be conducted more frequently and with sufficient time allocated to ensure a thorough process.
The Election Commission has announced that the nomination process for the upcoming election, scheduled to take place on September 9, will commence on July 23. However, within the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM), there is a belief among many members that if former President Yameen is cleared by the high court, there is still a slight possibility of him running for presidency.
The last day to submit nominations is August 3.
Despite the ongoing appeal for the Aarah verdict in the High Court, the trial related to the charges of accepting a bribe and money laundering regarding Raa atoll Fuggiri is currently underway in the Criminal Court. Concerns have been raised by Yameen's supporters regarding the close proximity of these trials.
During Qasim's campaign rally on Thursday, Ameen said that Qasim had been instrumental in winning elections, addressing internal conflicts within the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), and revitalizing their own party.
"This time, Qasim himself is running for presidency, his victory in the presidential election will mark the culmination of the political process," Ameen said.
Ameen added that Qasim's manifesto will be made public soon and will address the challenges faced by the people and will focus on bringing "attainable development" to the Maldives.
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