Maldives Correctional Services is currently looking into the matter of former President Abdulla Yameen visiting the party headquarters of his new party People's National Front last night.
Yameen, who is serving an 11 year sentence for bribery and money laundering, was transferred to house arrest after President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's presidential election victory in September, and later granted additional leeway in leaving the house for medical and other necessary purposes after issuing prior notice to the service.
However, following his release, he went to the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) offices on consecutive nights, proceeding to hold political rallies at the location. Corrections subsequently warned Yameen that they would withdraw the leniencies granted to him if he continued political activities, which are a direct contravention of the Prisons and Parole Act. This resulted in Yameen ceasing political activities at the time.
However, following growing rifts with the leadership of PPM, Yameen left the party on Thursday night and announced the intention to form a new party. He has since been seen to be politically active. He actively participated in the formation of the new party, PNF, and visited its headquarters located in H. Hurafa last night to meet with the party's leading members.
Correctional Service stated today that it is investigating this matter, and that they would be taking necessary action against the former President.
According to the Prisons and Parole Act, a person serving a prison sentence is not entitled to hold any leadership positions in a political party, although they are allowed to maintain the status of a general member. They are also prohibited from participating in any political events organized by said party during the serving of their sentence.
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