In a scathing critique, Inguraidhoo MP and People’s National Congress (PNC) Parliamentary Group Leader Ibrahim Falah has labeled former President Abdulla Yameen as the most brutal and treasonous leader in Maldivian history. Falah’s remarks come in response to Yameen’s allegations that current President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu is exerting undue influence over the Parliament and judiciary.
Falah, reflecting on his tenure during Yameen’s administration, highlighted that the 18th Parliament experienced significant interference from Yameen and his wife, Fathimath Ibrahim. He contrasted this with the current 20th Parliament, which he describes as exemplary and free from governmental manipulation.
Expressing astonishment at Yameen’s recent statements on judicial independence and corruption, Falah questioned the former president’s credibility on these issues. He urged Maldivians over the age of 15 to reflect on their experiences during Yameen’s rule, implying a collective acknowledgment of past injustices.
Once closely associated with Yameen, Falah now accuses him of severely undermining the judiciary and orchestrating the expulsion of 12 parliament members by besieging the legislative body. He also alleges that Yameen embezzled hundreds of millions of rufiyaa from the national treasury into personal accounts.
These allegations align with past events where Yameen faced legal challenges. Notably, in December 2022, he was sentenced to 11 years in prison for corruption and money laundering related to receiving kickbacks from a private company. However, in April 2024, the Maldives High Court overturned this sentence, citing procedural irregularities and ordering a retrial.
Falah’s recent statements underscore ongoing tensions within Maldivian politics, reflecting deep-seated grievances and the complexities of the nation’s political landscape.
