Former President Abdulla Yameen has stated he would not have been convicted of embezzling state funds if he had been given a fair trial. He made the remarks at a special event held at the office of the Progressive Party of the Maldives (PPM) after his release from prison.
It was the first time former President Yameen has participated and spoken at a PPM event since he was sentenced to five years in prison for money laundering in 2019.
Speaking at the event, Yameen expressed concern over the Maldives justice system and said he would not have been convicted of embezzling state funds if a fair trial had been conducted. He said the citizens are still the most worried about the judiciary, adding the country cannot progress if the judiciary is not reformed. He added that he will continue to call for judicial reforms even if it means returning to prison.
Furthermore, former President Yameen said the judiciary is still the worst aspect of the country and that citizens will not be able to live and work in peace unless they are guaranteed that the justice system is free from influence. Yameen also expressed concern over the lack of resolution in the alleged audio leak of three judges at the Criminal Court that presided over his case. He said more questions will arise over the lack of response from investigative authorities over the case.
Former President Yameen also said PPM is the only political party that is working to uphold and maintain Maldives culture and society. He said PPM has been working to maintain the country's sovereignty since its establishment and vowed that it will strengthen its political activities.