Presidential Commission on Yumnu case to hold first press conference today

The first press briefing of the Presidential Commission formed to investigate Hawwa Yumnu Rasheed's fall from a building has been scheduled for this afternoon.

The press briefing is to be held at 1pm today. The commission has been given office space in the building which formerly housed the Saudi Embassy in Maldives.

The commission was formed last Saturday to investigate the case of Yumnu, G. Ranauraage, falling from H. Fentoniya on to the roof of a warehouse at H. Mitaaz on April 18.

The President of the Commission is former Attorney General Dr Mohamed Munavvar. The commission has five members. These are:

1. Dr Mohamed Munavvar, G. Hassankaarige

2. Brigadier General (Retired) Ahmed Mohamed, V. Alman

3. Dr Moosa Murad, Male' Register no. 641

4. Jabeen Mohamed, Moonimaage, Th. Veymandoo

5. Aminath Eanas, H. Habaruge

The resolution to establish the commission states that the purpose of the commission is to investigate the case of a woman fallen onto a roof in Male', to conduct a free and fair investigation into the case, uncover the truth behind the incident, monitor the work conducted by relevant authorities to date, take necessary actions relevant to the case, and ensure a just and credible investigation into how the incident occurred.

The commission is vested with the powers to:

1. Seek assistance from all State institutions and other entities for their investigation and to fulfil their duties

2. Bring in relevant foreign authorities or experts to assist in the Commission's investigation and work

3. Using the authority of law enforcement bodies as defined in the Criminal Justice Act to fulfil the Commission's reponsibilities

4. Applying to court for arrest orders and other criminal investigation related orders

5. Summoning and questioning any persons deemed necessary, obtaining or ordering submission of any documents or other evidence related to the investigation

6. In the instance that any other entities have conducted an investigation into the case, the Commission can order their findings, documents and evidence be shared with them

The Presidential Commission was formed at a time when there is heavy public criticism against the Police for their handling of the case, with allegations of cover-ups and discrimination levied against them.