Corrections continues to warn action for breach of agreement, as Yameen takes to political podiums

Maldives Correctional Service continues to say it will take action for violations of its agreement with former president Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom, as the PPM leader, who has been convicted of corruption charges, returns to politics.

Yameen was sentenced to 11 years in prison for money laundering and bribery charges in connection to the sale of Vaav Aarah on December 26, 2022.

He was transferred from his cell in Maafushi Prison to his home in Male’ City on October 1 – a day after PPM-PNC’s presidential candidate Dr. Mohamed Muizzu won the Maldivian presidential election.

On Friday, Correctional Service eased the terms of Yameen’s confinement, allowing him to leave his home for medical care related purposes.

And on Monday, the service said that it had granted additional easements, that extended to Yameen being allowed to leave home for exercise, and to meet people that he “absolutely” wishes to – after giving prior notice to the service.

With the decision, Yameen started getting actively involved in politics, attending and addressing gatherings at the PPM headquarters on Sunday, and again, on Monday.

Maldives Prisons and Parole Act bans convicts from involvement in political activities.

This has resulted in criticism against the Correctional Service, with many questioning whether Yameen is above the law.

When questioned about this, Correctional Service’s spokesperson provided the same response they gave the day before: that they would take action if Yameen violates his agreement with the service.

Despite repeated questioning, the spokesperson refused to say whether the service found Yameen to have violated the deal, or if it was taking action against him.