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Ex-Vp Jihad's travel ban unlawful: Supreme Court

Nafaahath Ibrahim
19 February 2021, MVT 09:07
Former vice president Abdulla Jihad
Nafaahath Ibrahim
19 February 2021, MVT 09:07

The Supreme Court on Thursday ruled that the travel ban enforced on former Vice President Abdulla Jihad was unlawful.

This ruling was in favour of the High Court's ruling that ordered to life the travel ban on Jihad.

Jihad's passport was withheld over accusations that he had acted against the state's interests when leasing Fushidhiggaru, Kaafu Atoll, for development while he was the Minister of Finance during former President Mohamed Waheed's administration.

At the time, the Criminal Court withheld his passport over fears that he might flee the country.

After the hearings had begun, Jihad requested to be allowed out of the country. He filed a request for permission to fly to Dubai for medical treatment as well as visit his children who are studying there.

Once the Criminal Court denied permission, he then requested the court to review its decision, along with submission of requirements guaranteeing his return.

However, this request was also declined by the court and stated that it could be appealed at High Court instead.

On January 13, the High Court overturned the lower courts verdict upon appeal, mainly based on the assurances provided to ensure Jihad's return to Maldives.

Soon after this, on January 15, Prosecutor Generals (PG) office appealed the verdict.

The Supreme Courts decision was unanimous with all three judges, Justice Aisha Sujune, Justice Ali Rasheed and Justice Dr Ibrahim Mohamed, ruling in Jihad's favour. Justice Shujune was presiding over the hearing.

It was noted that the state was unable to provide evidence to back their claims that Jihad is a flight risk. Additionally, the court noted that until the former vice president request permission to fly, the state did not cite him to be a flight risk.

Furthermore, as per the top court, they can order a travel ban but cannot order to confiscate a defendants passport.

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