Parliamentary Member for Dhiggaru Constituency Ahmed Faris Maumoon has been served a sentence of four months and twenty four days in prison for identity fraud.
MP Faris has been found guilty of identity fraud due his involvement in an unsanctioned press conference exploiting the flag and logo of ruling Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM), at a press conference held with the opposition coalition last year.
The reading of the verdict highlighted Faris’ assertion that because the press conference was held whilst he was a member of PPM, he would be entitled to using the party flag and logo. It also pointed out several inconsistencies amongst witness statements given against Faris during the reading.
In addition to identity fraud, Faris also faces separate charges of bribery and terrorism over an alleged coup plot.
He has been incarcerated pending trial under these charges for a period of 10 months.
Faris’ father, former president Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, is also serving a 19-month prison sentence on charges pertaining to the obstruction of justice since his conviction on June 13.
The Criminal Court is currently investigating terrorism charges levied on these political prisoners in the wake of the landmark February 1 ruling.
Sign In