President Dr Mohamed Muizzu told Maafannu residents that indefinite detention, locally known as vaanuvaa, is not a problem limited to one ward or even Malé. He described it as a nationwide issue that previously left detainees with no trial dates and no clear indication of when their cases would begin or conclude. He said the entire process had been shrouded in uncertainty.
Breakdown of the Previous System
According to the President, a detailed government review found that the Criminal Court and the Drug Court were operating without adequate space or facilities when the current administration took office. This lack of capacity caused hundreds of cases to pile up, leaving individuals in custody for prolonged periods without scheduled hearings.
Government Action to Restore Order
President Muizzu said his administration has worked to secure proper premises for both courts and provide the necessary resources to restart hearings. He added that the Attorney General has informed him that many of the previously stagnant cases are now progressing within the court system.
Clear Breakdown of Current Detainee Figures
Responding to calls for detainees to be released quickly, the President presented the latest figures showing the serious nature of the cases involved. There are 347 individuals in detention awaiting hearings or judgments.
Figures by case category:
- Murder cases: 29
- Terrorism related cases: 20
- Child sexual abuse cases: 117
- Fatal assault cases: 70
- Drug trafficking cases: 116
- Other offences: money laundering, theft, armed robbery, domestic violence, kidnapping, human trafficking, same sex relations, arson, prostitution and smuggling
The President said these numbers make it clear why such individuals cannot simply be released back into the community without proper judicial process.
Strengthening Judicial Independence
President Muizzu highlighted the reforms introduced to ensure the judiciary operates without external influence. These include:
- New dedicated buildings for the Criminal Court and the Drug Court
- Salary harmonization for judicial staff
- A separate judiciary budget account at the Maldives Monetary Authority
- The highest budget allocation ever provided to the judiciary
- Plans to begin constructing a multi building Superior Court complex
He said these steps grant both financial and administrative independence, enabling the courts to function effectively and without political pressure.
Rejecting Politically Motivated Criticism
The President said he would not associate himself with irresponsible political statements that attempt to link him to crimes such as child sexual abuse, terrorism, murder or drug trafficking. He stressed that such narratives are driven by political motives and do not reflect the government’s commitment to justice and public safety.
Commitment to Ending Vaanuvaa
President Muizzu concluded that his administration is fully committed to ending the era of indefinite detention by restoring capacity, independence and efficiency to the judiciary. He expressed confidence that the reformed institutions will continue to resolve long pending cases and ensure justice for all citizens.
