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State files case at JSC against CC judge for releasing Ali Waheed’s passport

Shahudha Mohamed
15 February 2021, MVT 21:29
Criminal Court. PHOTO: MIHAARU FILES
Shahudha Mohamed
15 February 2021, MVT 21:29

Prosecutor General’s (PG) Office, on Sunday evening, filed a case at the Judicial Service Commission against Criminal Court Judge Hassan Saeed over the court order to release the passport of former Minister of Tourism accused of sexually assaulting his employees.

Defending against the public criticism levied against PG Office over Ali Waheed’s departure to the United Kingdom (UK) following the court’s decision, PG Office had asserted its belief that the court was wrong in releasing the defendant’s passport, further adding that the court had acted against the usual policy for similar cases.

PG Office also appealed Criminal Court’s order to release Ali Waheed’s passport at the High Court on Sunday.

The court came under severe criticism from the public for allowing Ali Waheed to travel to any country for a period of four months, against PG Office’s advise. The office had warned the court that Ali Waheed had formerly fled the country in the middle of a trial, and therefore, exhibited a high chance of not returning to the country if he was allowed to leave.

Judge Hassan Saeed had also overlooked the state’s request to release Ali Waheed on a travel document instead of giving back his passport, if he required medical treatment that was not available in Maldives.

Moreover, PG Office noted that the court had announced that orders against Ali Waheed could not be implemented from the moment he leaves the country.

Prior to PG Office’s case against the judge, Hassan Saeed had also been accused of attempting to cover up a sexual harassment incident that took place at the Family Court.

The judicial watchdog had investigated the case at the time and decided to remove the judge from his position, but he was later appointed as a judge at the Criminal Court.

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