President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has pledged that his Administration will take all necessary steps to permanently resolve the issue of prolonged pre-trial detention in the Maldives.
Speaking during the latest Rayyithunnaa Eku podcast, the President described extended pre-trial custody as unacceptable and reaffirmed his Government’s commitment to implementing both immediate and long-term solutions. He highlighted that over 300 individuals are currently in prolonged detention, with some held for more than six years.
Dr. Muizzu stressed that the only lasting solution lies in expediting investigations. While investigations fall under the judiciary’s purview, the Government is prepared to provide administrative support, resources, and improved infrastructure, such as the upcoming court complex in Hulhumalé, to facilitate faster trial processes.
He also reiterated plans to introduce a composite prison system and said feasibility studies for a new detention facility are underway. In the short term, at least one-third of the cases are under review by the Police, the Prosecutor General’s Office, and the Attorney General’s Office, including consideration for monitored release using electronic tagging.
The President reaffirmed his commitment to bail reform, noting that changes would apply only to minor offences and would not extend to serious crimes. He also cited two national forums held this year as part of ongoing efforts to drive judicial reform in collaboration with key stakeholders.
Speaking during the latest Rayyithunnaa Eku podcast, the President described extended pre-trial custody as unacceptable and reaffirmed his Government’s commitment to implementing both immediate and long-term solutions. He highlighted that over 300 individuals are currently in prolonged detention, with some held for more than six years.
Dr. Muizzu stressed that the only lasting solution lies in expediting investigations. While investigations fall under the judiciary’s purview, the Government is prepared to provide administrative support, resources, and improved infrastructure, such as the upcoming court complex in Hulhumalé, to facilitate faster trial processes.
He also reiterated plans to introduce a composite prison system and said feasibility studies for a new detention facility are underway. In the short term, at least one-third of the cases are under review by the Police, the Prosecutor General’s Office, and the Attorney General’s Office, including consideration for monitored release using electronic tagging.
The President reaffirmed his commitment to bail reform, noting that changes would apply only to minor offences and would not extend to serious crimes. He also cited two national forums held this year as part of ongoing efforts to drive judicial reform in collaboration with key stakeholders.
