HRCM condemns remarks targeting Supreme Court judge Shujoon

Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) has condemned insulting remarks directed at Supreme Court Justice Aisha Shujoon during a public meeting in Male'.

The comments were made on 8 December by Abdul Latheef Umar, father of Sheikh Iyaz Abdul Latheef, at a community meeting hosted by President Mohamed Muizzu in Henveiru. Umar criticised Shujoon for serving on the Supreme Court bench without wearing a hijab, suggesting that those who do not cover their hair should work in places such as massage parlours rather than in the judiciary.

Two weeks later, HRCM issued a statement expressing concern over the remarks, emphasising that the protection of every individual’s name and reputation is guaranteed under Islamic Sharia, the Constitution, and international human rights treaties. The commission noted that freedom of expression does not extend to infringing on others’ reputations.

“Insulting a member of the judicial system of Maldives will undermine the dignity of the entire system,” the statement said. It called for views to be expressed constructively, without gender-based insults or discrimination.

HRCM also highlighted that Maldives is a party to the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) and that such language violates the convention.

“The use of sexually insulting language against scholarly, capable women like Supreme Court Justice Aisha Shujoon Mohamed is an obstacle to women’s advancement and rights. Such insults may deter other women who wish to enter public service,” the commission said.

The statement concluded by urging the public to refrain from making statements that degrade human dignity and respect in public forums.