Maldives Correctional Services has stated that a decision will be made regarding the request to transfer jailed former president Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayyoom to home arrest.
The former president is currently serving a five year sentence on a money-laundering conviction. Yameen's family and party officials recently requested authorities to transfer him to home arrest for the Holy Month of Ramadan.
Answering a question asked by AVAS, the Commissioner of Prisons, Ahmed Mohamed Fulhu said a letter requesting President Yameen's transfer was sent to Maldives Correctional Services by former First Lady Fathimath Ibrahim Didi. Ahmed Mohamed said discussions regarding the request are ongoing and that the commission is seeking the required recommendations from relevant authorities. The commissioner further said while rules and regulations are in place on home transfer options and leniency for prisoners, Maldives Correctional Services will be following the relevant rules. A decision on the matter will be reached swiftly, he added.
Speaking to the press last Monday, President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih also acknowledged receiving a letter sent by former First Lady requesting to transfer the ex-president home. He also said members of the opposition coalition had recently met with him to discuss a possible transfer. The government is deliberating on both requests, the president had said, further assuring that 'no harm would befall the former president'.
