The detention of the judge had provided the spark for a police and military mutiny – labelled by many a coup d’etat – which resulted in Nasheed’s departure from office on February 7, 2011, writes Daniel Bosley for the South Asia Journal.
“Alleging his resignation had come under duress, Nasheed and his supporters took to the streets the following day where they were met with brutal suppression by a police force which has yet to be brought to account for the numerous human rights abuses that ensued.
The Kafkaesque legal polemics when Nasheed was forcefully brought before the court for the first hearing in October hinted at deeper issues which underscore the country’s recent crises. Contending legal opinions suggested an illegal arrest warrant had been used, from an illegally assembled court, to bring an illegally removed president to trial, for the illegal detention of an illegal judge.
This labyrinthine situation indicates the urgent need for police and judicial reform in a struggling democracy which is looking increasingly rudderless. After months of political deadlock, street demonstrations, accusation and counter-accusation, Nasheed’s trial presents an opportunity to bring the political crisis back to where it began, with the judiciary and the criminal justice system.
I have read with concern a number of articles and commentaries over recent weeks which appear to be based on two false premises: first, that the Maldives judiciary is independent and impartial; and second, that it is capable of delivering a fair trial to the democratically elected President of this country, Mr Mohamed Nasheed.
Neither premise holds-up to careful scrutiny.
The first false-premise, which is regularly put forward by members of the Government, especially Dr Hassan Saeed, as well as by the Maldives’ own ‘independent’ UN Resident Coordinator, Mr Andrew Cox, appears to be based on a misguided reading of the concept of ‘independence’. In essence, this misreading holds that if our Constitution says that the judiciary is ‘independent’ then it must be so, irrespective of what the on-the-ground reality tells us.
The 2008 Constitution does of course establish a separation of powers and makes clear, in article 142, that “judges are independent”. But just because the Constitution says this is so, does not, of course, magic the situation into existence.
What the Constitution also does therefore is set up mechanisms to ensure judicial independence, impartiality and integrity. It therefore makes clear that all judges will, under the new Constitution, be subject to a reappointment process (article 285) and that to be (re)appointed, judges (article 149) “must possess the educational qualifications, experience and recognized competence necessary to discharge the duties and responsibilities of a Judge, and must be of a high moral character”.
Central to this process is the Judicial Services Commission (JSC), which is responsible for both the (re)appointment process and for upholding the impartiality and integrity of judges including by listening to complaints and taking “disciplinary action” against them if necessary (article 159b).
The importance of these mechanisms is clear when one recalls that all judges at the time of the entry-into-force of the new Constitution had been appointed by, and owed their loyalties to, former President Gayoom during his 30-year rule.
However, as Aishath Velezinee, President Nasheed’s former member on the JSC, has demonstrated in her book “The Failed Silent Coup”, former President Gayoom succeeded, through securing a post-election de facto majority in the Majlis, in controlling the appointment of members to the JSC and thus of controlling the JSC’s reappointment and disciplinary procedures.
As a result, despite ample evidence of some judges possessing neither the competence, qualifications nor moral character to be reappointed, the JSC quickly moved to swear them all in, arguing that the criteria laid down by the Constitution to control reappointment were only “symbolic” .
When Velezinee objected she was manhandled out of the room.
In the years thereafter, the JSC compounded this failure by refusing to process any of the multiple public complaints it received against Gayoom-era justices. When, in 2011, it finally bowed to public pressure and recommended disciplinary action be taken against Judge Abdullah Mohamed, a man accused of serial wrongdoings over many years, the judge in question simply asked his friends in the Civil Court to annul the proceedings.
When the Civil Court did so, it removed the last pretense that the Maldives’ judiciary is independent, impartial or accountable. As of that date, the Maldives’ judiciary became a failed institution.
So what of the second premise: that such a judiciary is capable of delivering a fair trial to President Nasheed, who is ‘accused’ of arresting Judge Abdullah Mohamed after the judge used his friends in the Civil Court to circumvent the Constitution and then used his position in the Criminal Court to repeatedly free not just allies of former President Gayoom, but also a number of known criminals?
Here, it is perhaps worth turning to respected international experts, international organisations and NGOs which have studied the Maldives judiciary and the justice sector more broadly.
The systematic problems facing the judicial system have been widely documented and were perhaps best summed-up by legal expert Professor Paul Robinson who advised the Maldives on judicial reform.
In his 2005 report, he characterised the Maldives criminal justice system as “systematically failing to do justice and regularly doing injustice”.
One of Professor Robinson’s main recommendations – to conduct a complete overhaul of the country’s archaic Penal Code – remains unimplemented. As a consequence, the Prosecutor-General is insisting on prosecuting President Nasheed on the basis of a Code drafted in the 1960s and which is based on a document produced in India in the 19th century.
In February 2011, the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) visited the Maldives and issued a report which echoed many of Professor Robinson’s earlier concerns and demonstrated that, irrespective of the new Constitution, little had changed.
In its report, the ICJ expressed concern at “the apparent failure of the JSC to fulfill its constitutional mandate of properly vetting and reappointing judges” as well as the “judicialisation of politics”.
“The JSC”, according to the ICJ, “was unable to carry out its functions in a sufficiently transparent, timely, and impartial manner”. The ICJ concluded that the complete lack of judicial accountability in the Maldives undermines public confidence and calls into question the institution’s independence.
In July 2012, the United Nations Human Rights Committee considered the state of the Maldives judiciary. In its concluding statement, the Committee said it was “deeply concerned about the state of the judiciary in the Maldives”.
“The State has admitted that this body’s independence is seriously compromised” noted the Committee, which called for serious reform of the Supreme Court, the judiciary more broadly and the Judicial Service Commission.
These findings were mirrored by both Amnesty International and the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) in late 2012, following their visits to the Maldives. For example, FIDH in its report “From Sunrise to Sunset” on human rights in the Maldives, noted that despite important constitutional changes, “different sections of the judiciary have failed to become fully independent”, while pointing out that the JSC lacks transparency and its members are prone to “conflicts of interest”.
With the above in mind, it is difficult to understand how members of the government or some parts of the international community can claim with any degree of sincerity that our judiciary is either independent or capable of delivering a fair trial for President Nasheed or the hundreds of other Maldives Democratic Party (MDP) members currently facing prosecution for “terrorism” and other trumped-up charges.
If justice is indeed blind, then why are hundreds of MDP supporters awaiting trial, while not one police officer or member of the current government has been held accountable for the widely-documented brutality unleashed against protesters since February 7?
And if justice is indeed blind, then why are cases against MDP supporters being fast-tracked while there are over 2000 other cases pending with the Prosecutor-General? Why have all the serious corruption cases against Gayoom’s political allies been either sidelined or discontinued?
Perhaps the most damning indictment of the Maldives judiciary is that, at this time of political division, it is the one subject about which nearly everyone in the country can agree. Whether you are for President Nasheed or against him; whether you think February 7 was a legitimate change in government or a coup, nearly everyone – at least outside the President’s Office – agrees that our judicial sector are not fit for purpose.
And yet it is this deeply flawed institution, wielding a two hundred year old legal code that is supposedly able to deliver a fair trial for President Nasheed.
Over recent years, we have achieved much. We have amended our Constitution, embraced party politics, held our first free and fair elections, voted-out a 30 year old autocracy and voted-in our first democratically elected leader.
But the judiciary has failed to come even close to matching this pace of change and remains, by-and-large, the same institution as it was during the Gayoom era – unreformed and unrepentant.
Eva Abdulla is an MP in the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP).
All comment pieces are the sole view of the author and do not reflect the editorial policy of Minivan News. If you would like to write an opinion piece, please send proposals to [email protected]
A strong police presence is building around parts of Male’ as opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) supporters gather at the Usfasgandu protest area and the nearby Dharubaaruge conference centre for a meeting of its national congress this afternoon.
Tension has risen over the last 24 hours in the build up to the release of the Commission of National Inquiry (CNI) report investigating the controversial transfer of power on February 7. The events brought President Mohamed Waheed Hassan to power.
The findings, unveiled by President Waheed this morning, stated that the change of government was “legal and constitutional”, and the events of February 6 and 7 “were, in large measure, reactions to the actions of President Nasheed.”
The report has been “welcomed” by the Commonwealth, which has called for continued dialogue to find “consensus” on a way forward for the country’s political parties.
However, the MDP has maintained that the government of former President Mohamed Nasheed was removed from office illegitimately.
MDP Spokesperson MP Imthiyaz Fahmy today claimed that the people would forever remember that what happened on February 7 was “a coup” and that the party will not stop their calls for a legitimate government.
“Remember this, the Maldivian people will as long as they live will remember that what happened on February 7 was a coup d’etat. What the CNI did was legitimise the coup, but truth will prevail. We will remain determined in our calls for a legitimate government,” Fahmy said.
Former Minister of Environment Mohamed Aslam claimed that the actions of the CNI implied that anyone “who wished to become president or to come to power” can now become so “if they gather the support of the police and military”
“What we saw was a coup d’etat. If we let such an offence go by without justice, this is a very bad precedent we are setting here, and MDP will not let that happen. I ask all our members, among the islands to come to Male’ and join us in our cause,” he added.
Government-aligned politicians such as Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP) Leader Ahmed Thasmeen Ali have said that while not everyone will agree on the CNI findings, “finality” was now needed on the issue of the transfer of power in order to begin addressing wider political concerns in the country.
Meanwhile, Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) has issued a statement stating that the findings were a comfort to the institution’s officers and families.
The decision that the transfer of government went according to the constitution by an independent commission was seen as proving accusations against the MNDF were wrong, the military contended. The statement added the the findings brought courage and confidence to maintain its “important national service”.
Minivan News this morning observed police Special Operations (SO) officers stationed at the two ends of Ameenee Magu in front of Dharubaaruge. The gatherings have so far in general remained peaceful, with police not attempting to disperse the crowds.
Police today expressed concern that the MDP was deciding to take to the streets and announced that 21 persons had been arrested in the last 24 hours.
LIVE UPDATES – refresh this page:
16:52 – Local newspaper Haveeru has reported that the Maldives Police Service (MDP) has sent a summons to Former Defense Advisor Ameen Faisal.
17:00 – Police Sub-Inspector Hassan Haneef has confirmed that a chit was sent to Ameen Faisal. According to Haneef, Faisal has been asked to present himself to the police headquarters at 9pm tommorow (August 31).
Haneef did specify on what grounds Faisal was being summoned.
17:04 – “People are losing their tempers and leaving the Dharubaaruge conference centre in droves,” reports Minivan News’ Daniel Bosley.
“If we are just going to talk, we should go home,” a male participant at the national congress is observed shouting.
17:14 – The Maldives Police Service website has claimed two suspects had been taken into custody at 16:30 this afternoon after reportedly being found attempting to set fire to a waste disposal site (Kunigondu). Items have been seized from the suspects. There was no confirmation if their alleged actions were politically motivated.
17:19 – The MDP national congress had ended without resolution. Former Environment Minister Mohamed Aslam asked attendees inside shortly before the meeting’s end if they would prefer to go out into streets or continue the meeting, Minivan News observed.
17:24 – Former President Mohamed Nasheed has not been observed at the congress today. MDP MP and Spokesperson Hamid Abdul Ghafoor has said ahead of a proposed march later today: “Nasheed is always seen as a cult leader. This is a good opportunity to test the party’s strength without just following him.”
17:29 – Minivan News has observed between 200 to 300 MDP supporters setting out to reach Chaandhanee Magu junction. However their progress has been blocked by a truck carrying police officers. The supporters are now believed to be heading towards the parliament.
17:35 – Local newspaper Haveeru has reported that group of MDP protesters have been split into different groups after being blocked by police.
17:42 – Local media has said that protesters have now reached the Chaandhanee Magu junction.
17:59 – Local media has reported Police and MNDF officers are now chasing protesters at Chandhanee Magu. According to Haveeru, eight people have been arrested – six male, two female.
18:09 – Sun Online has reported police have confirmed the arrest of 10 people during ongoing protests. The demonstrators are said to have been charged for obstructing police in their duties.
18:24 – Speaking to Minivan News today, Ahmed Thasmeen Ali , Leader of the government-aligned Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP) has said he believes talks scheduled to take place at the Bandos Island Resort and Spa this evening are still happening.
“To the best of my knowledge the talks are still taking place. I plan to take part myself,” he said.
Following the findings of the CNI report this morning, Thasmeen contended that the focus of the talks, which had previously outlined an agenda including discussions on potentially scheduling early elections for this year “should now change”.
“There had previously been serious contention over the transfer of power. At this point we had been willing to discuss early elections. I think these questions have now been answered [with the CNI report]. It is now time for national reconciliation,” he said.
Thasmeen added that he believed the talks would no longer focus on agreeing a date for early elections, which President Waheed has previously said under the constitution can be scheduled for July 2013.
“I think it should be possible to move on and try finding common platforms for agreement,” he said.
Thasmeen pointed to issues of alleged politicisation within the police as a concern that could be discussed.
“During the previous government I had made allegations about [former President] Nasheed’s attempts to use the police force as a political tool,” he said. “If Nasheed is also making similar accusations now, then we can look at this issue before the next elections.”
18:33 – MDP Spokesperson Hamid Abdul Ghafoor has said that party Chairperson Reeko Moosa is expected to be in attendance at the talks scheduled for Bandos Island Resort and Spa.
“He won’t have much to say as the MDP has decided to not accept the report released by CoNI,” Ghafoor contended.
The President’s Office had specifically invited the MDP chair, the party has claimed.
Ghafoor also questioned whether “constructive discussion” will be possible during the talks.
18:59 – The Maldives Police Service website has said that a group of people accused of creating unrest at today’s protests have been arrested in an raid at the Usfasgandu area.
19:08 – Police Spokesperson Sub-Inspector Hassan Haneef, when asked for clarification on the activities of protesters charged with obstructing police duty today, has referred Minivan News to the live updates section of the Maldives Police Service website (English) (Dhivehi).
“It will be quite clear from there,” Haneef responded.
20:04 – According to official police figures, 50 people have been arrested this afternoon. All were arrested on the charge of obstructing officers in performing their duty. Of those arrested, seven are said to be females, with one suspect identified as a minor.
Police have also confirmed that a man was stabbed in Addu City at 17:00 this evening. He is currently being treated at Hithadhoo Regional Hospital – no political motivation was mentioned by authorities.
Suspected MDP protesters have also been accused of vandalising the attorney general’s car and removing the flag attached to the vehicle at 18:55 this evening, police have said.
20:15 – Minister of State for Home Affairs Mohamed Fayaz has told Minivan News that fears of potential unrest occurring in the country’s prisons following the release of the CNI report has not been realised.
Fayaz, who also serves as Head of the Department of Penitentiary and Rehabilitation Service (DPRS), alleged in local media earlier this week that communications between political figures and inmates had been facilitated through mobile phones smuggled into prisons to try and create unrest.
“Military fire capacity and police backup will be available on that day,” he was quoted as telling Sun Online at the time in the case of any incidents.
20:47 – Organisations including the Commonwealth, US, India, UN call for the CNI’s report outcome to be respected in light of its publication today, Minivan News has reported.
21:15 – The European Union has announced it has taken note of the release of the CNI report and the events surrounding the controversial transfer of power on February 7.
“[The EU] recalls that all political groupings had previously undertaken to respect the CNI’s findings, although the report would certainly have been controversial whatever the outcome,” said Michael Mann, Chief Spokesperson for Catherine Ashton, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy.
“It is now more than ever essential that genuine efforts be made by all political actors to work together in the interests of the country to ensure that the democratic system is upheld; to allow the normal business of government to continue; and to prepare for free and fair elections, which should be held as soon as possible.”
22:00 – Haveeru has reported that the government has called for the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG) to remove the Maldives from it agenda.
The Maldives was placed on CMAG’s agenda back in February after the Commonwealth called called for a “formal” independent and impartial investigation, with the involvement of international partners, to ascertain the details behind the controversial transfer of power earlier in the month.
The decision meant the Maldives would no longer be able to participate in CMAG while it remained on the Commonwealth’s watch list.
However, with the publication of the CNI’s report today, State Foreign Minister Dunya Maumoon told local media that the government now called to be removed from the CMAG agenda immediately as a result of the findings.
“We believe that it was set on the agenda in an inappropriate manner. Several accusations and lies were directed towards the Maldives. The Maldives was included in the CMAG’s agenda through the influence of personal connections of certain individuals,” she was quoted as saying in Haveeru.
The report quoted Dunyaas saying that the CNI’s findings had backed the government’s claims that it had been brought to power under constitutional means.
“So now we know that this is a constitutional government. We don’t have to face any more accusations. It has all been cleared,” she said.
22:15 – Police Spokesperson Sub-Inspector Hassan Haneef has said police are advising people not to walk the streets in groups of more than three people.
Haneef added that groups larger than three would face being stopped and questioned by officers as part of an ongoing special operation police have said was introduced to reduce the chances of violent unrest in the country around the CNI report release.
“We have continued to advise people not to go out and commit unlawful acts,” he said.
00:39 – Police claim 13 people have been taken into custody for creating unrest. A minor is said to be among the suspects.
Several resort managers have voiced concern that revenue raising measures proposed by the Finance Ministry will affect the financial viability of the tourism industry while providing little improvement in service or support in return.
The proposed measures were part of an ‘austerity’ package sent to parliament’s Finance Committee last week in a bid to address the country’s crippled financial condition.
Increased government spending – such as the repayment of civil service salaries cut during the former administration, and promotions and lump sum payments to the police and military – has not been offset by additional income.
As a result, the government has sought a succession of loans this year to pay its expenses at a time it is facing political challenges to its legitimacy, and country is facing plummeting investor confidence, a drop-off in foreign aid, an ongoing foreign currency crisis, and the challenges of its 2011 graduation to the UN’s definition of ‘middle income’.
As well as a raft of austerity measures, including the cancellation of electricity subsidies for citizens in Male’ and “reform” of the universal healthcare scheme, proposed revenue raising measures include plans to:
Raise import duty on oil to 3 percent
Impose import duty on items whose value exceeds MVR6.4 million
Raise import duties for liquor
Introduce GST for telecom services and sale of flats (both are now GST-exempt)
Raise GST rate for luxury items
Raise T-GST to 15 percent
Raise airport service charge for foreigners to $30
Increase visa fee for foreigners by MVR150
Minivan News spoke to several resort managers about the potential impact of such measures on the tourism industry. Of particular concern was the proposed increase in Tourism GST from 6 percent to 15 percent.
“That would be the biggest hit along with the liquor duty,” observed one manager.
“With the standard 10 percent service charge we’d be talking 25 percent on top. That’s too much,” he said.
Furthermore, a sudden increase in T-GST would force resorts to absorb the increase, due to contractual obligations.
“If such an announcement came after [the] contracts are signed, many operators would be forced to absorb the additional percent again,” the manager observed.
“Higher duty on liquor would be the most directly felt increase in guests’ daily extras. Our sales would take a hit,” he added.
An increase in already high oil prices due to government import duty would further increase prices.
“Oil has become more and more expensive since oil was first used. Another rise in prices would be just another rise, which, in the case of oil, would come anyway. Of course extra costs will eventually be passed on also from suppliers and will at one point always end up on the client’s bill. How much more of such a hike our clients will take, I couldn’t say. Already now the low- and mid-priced market segments are moaning,” he said.
The increase in airport charges to US$30 for foreigners would also increase the overall cost of the destination for potential visitors.
“Many other places charge one as well and I guess it has come to be accepted. If this is then garnished with higher visa fees, taxes of 25 percent, an eco-tax, bed-tax and the whole lot, it might quickly get too much though,” the manager warned.
Another resort manager told Minivan News that given the country’s almost total reliance on tourism, the government “needs to see itself as a tourism body as much as a government of a nation.”
“Tourism bodies in a general have five key responsibilities in order to increase the economic benefit of tourism for a nation,” he said: “Attract guests to the destination, have them stay as long as possible, have them invest back as much as possible into the local economy, have them recommend the destination to their friends and/or return themselves, and encourage balanced tourism development.”
The Finance Ministry’s proposed revenue raising measures “have negative implications for all five points of any basic tourism body plan,” he observed.
“As seen in the past 2-3 years, most countries have based their austerity strategies on reduced government expenditure and encouraging increases in revenue growth. This has been completed by efficiency plans for civil servants and key strategies to increase revenue,” the manager noted.
“In its actions over the last five months, the Maldives’ government has increased civil servants’ salaries, increased other costs, and are now looking at taking action that will compromise their main revenue stream. This is very different to other countries with similar financial challenges,” he stated.
“Whilst I understand that there is a need for a major revision on the Maldives economy, I would hope that cost reduction measures are implemented within the government that will balance the need for increased taxes on Maldives’ tourists. Areas of increased taxation such as oil and customs duty would be more acceptable psychologically for the tourism economy rather than an increase in direct tourists taxes and charges,” the manager added.
Soft drinks, alcohol were also rated expensive by 42 percent, while food, water and souvenirs received a similar ranking from 41 percent of tourists polled.
Tourism Minister Ahmed Adheeb and Deputy Tourism Minister Mohamed Maleeh Jamal were not responding at time of press.
Having “not demonstrated evidence of increasing efforts to address human trafficking over the previous year”, the country only narrowly avoided a descent to Tier 3 – the worst category – after presenting a written plan that, “if implemented, would constitute making significant efforts to meet the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking.”
Particular areas of criticism included “a lack of systematic procedures for identifying victims of trafficking among vulnerable populations, and not taking sufficient law enforcement steps or concrete actions to protect trafficking victims and prevent trafficking in Maldives.”
“Counter-trafficking efforts are impeded by a lack of understanding of the issue, a lack of legal structure, and the absence of a legal definition of trafficking.”
The report noted that in 2011, “13 suspected victims of human trafficking and two suspected human traffickers were intercepted and deported in three cases of human trafficking identified at the Ibrahim Nasir International Airport (INIA).”
The Maldivian government’s response to trafficking victims was to deport them, the report noted, without providing access to services “such as shelter, counseling, medical care, or legal aid.”
“It did not provide foreign victims with legal alternatives to their removal to countries where they might face hardship or retribution,” the report noted. “Authorities did not encourage victims to participate in the investigation or prosecution of trafficking offenders. Due to a lack of comprehensive victim identification procedures, the government may not have ensured that migrants subjected to forced labor and prostitution were not inappropriately incarcerated, fined, or otherwise penalised for unlawful acts committed as a direct result of [their] being trafficked.”
The Maldives made some progress towards prevention, the report noted, including the approval of an Anti-Trafficking plan in March 2012 and the establishment of an Anti Human-Trafficking and People Smuggling Unit in January 2012.
However, despite an operation in April 2011 by police and immigration into an “unknown number” of ongoing cases involving fraudulent recruitment, the deportation of two foreigners as a result and the raid and closure of several recruitment agencies by court order on suspicion of fraud and forgery, “no labour recruiter or broker was punished or fined for fraudulent recruitment practices.”
The Maldives is mainly flagged as a destination country for victims of labour exploitation, particularly from Bangladesh and to a lesser extent, India, but was noted as a destination for sex trafficking.
“An unknown number of the 80,000 to 110,000 foreign workers that government officials estimate are currently working in Maldives – primarily in the construction and service sectors – face conditions indicative of forced labor: fraudulent recruitment, confiscation of identity and travel documents, withholding or nonpayment of wages, or debt bondage,” the 2012 report notes.
“According to a diplomatic source, an estimated 50 percent of Bangladeshi workers in Maldives are not documented and a number of these workers are victims of trafficking. Migrant workers pay the equivalent of US$1,000 to US$4,000 in recruitment fees in order to migrate to Maldives,” the State Department said.
“In addition to Bangladeshis and Indians, some migrants from Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and Nepal reportedly experienced recruitment fraud before arriving in Maldives. Recruitment agents in source countries generally collude with employers and agents in Maldives to facilitate fraudulent recruitment and forced labor of migrant workers,” the report added.
The Maldives’ expatriate population makes up almost a third of the country’s population. Minivan News previously reported in 2010 that the scale of labour trafficking in the Maldives was so disproportionately vast that the revenue generated made it the second greatest source of foreign currency to the economy after tourism, eclipsing fishing.
In addition, a smaller number of women were trafficked from Sri Lanka, Thailand, India, China, the Philippines, Eastern Europe, and former Soviet Union countries and Bangladesh for sex work in Male’.
The new government has closed down many illegal brothels in Male’ since coming to power, with nearly a dozen reported raids of so-called ‘beauty salons’. The expatriate women arrested during these raids are typically quickly deported, however there have been few reports of brothel owners being prosecuted.
“Some reports indicate that internal sex trafficking of Maldivian girls,” the report noted. “Maldivian children are transported to Male from other islands for forced domestic service, and a small number were reportedly sexually abused by the families with whom they stayed. This is a corruption of the widely acknowledged practice where families send Maldivian children to live with a host family in Male for educational purposes.”
‘Cash bounties’
The State Department’s report was swiftly followed by news articles in local media this week claiming that private companies and individuals had begun posting ‘cash bounties’ for absconded expatriate workers.
According to a report in Sun Online, notices had been posted in cafes windows and garages offering rewards of between Rf1000 (US$65) and Rf3000 (US$195) for information leading to the whereabouts of foreign nationals in hiding.
“We let people paste announcements when they request for it. We don’t ask who they are or anything,” a garage employee told the publication, when asked about one such notice.
Immigration officials and police quickly condemned the practice.
Police Sub-Inspector Hassan Haneef told Minivan News that while police had received no official reports of the posters, a journalist had raised the matter in a press conference. Posting such notices was illegal, he said, and opened those responsible to charges of harassment.
An official from the Immigration Department also expressed surprise at the reports.
“We did not know that was going on. It is absolutely against international human rights,” he said, adding that it the matter would be examined.
Standard practice among employers in the Maldives has been required to post the photographs and details of missing and absconded expatriate workers in the local newspaper – on most days, the pages include rows of such faces. However the Immigration official emphasised that no money was offered as an incentive for locating the missing workers.
“I think somebody is playing politics,” he said, of the report of cash bounties. “The US State Department released its report three days ago. We’re still on the watch list. My thinking is that somebody [put up the posters] to tarnish our reputation.”
On the afternoon of February 7, 2012, the Maldives was set to sign into existence a plan that would have revolutionised the country’s energy sector, immediately attracting US$200 million of risk-mitigated renewable energy investment. It was proposed that investment would eventually reach US$2-3 billion – a gigantic step towards the country’s goal of carbon neutrality by 2020.
The Scaling-Up Renewable Energy Program (SREP) proposal was produced by the Renewable Energy Investment Office (REIO) under President Mohamed Nasheed’s administration, and driven by Nasheed’s Energy Advisor Mike Mason – an unpaid position.
Mason, a UK national, former mining engineer and expert on renewable energy, carbon finance and offsetting, collected and analysed data on energy use and the existing diesel infrastructure across the Maldives.
He discovered that the Maldives was facing an energy crisis that was as much economic as it was existential.
The greater Male’ region generates 30 MW, with a further 8-10 MW for industrial purposes, while government utilities across the island chain generate a further 18 MW. The tourist resorts privately produce and consume 70 MW.
The SREP plan reveals the scale of the problem: “If the oil price rises to $150/bbl by 2020, and consumption grows by four percent per annum, oil imports are expected to reach around US$700 million – or almost US$2,000 per head of population.
“This is clearly unsustainable. Decarbonisation is at least as much a matter of national economic security and social welfare as it is a matter of environmental concern,” the report notes.
Energy revolution
Former Energy Advisor Mike Mason
Mason calculated that solar photovoltaic (PV) could be supplied directly to consumers at US$0.23 per kWh during the day, but only at US$0.44 per kWh from batteries at night. However an optimum mix of solar, battery and wind could supply 80 percent of power requirements at US$0.36 per kWh. Biomass could be supplied to Male at US$0.16 per kWh, or US$0.20 a kWh including capital.
Mason compared this to the volatile cost of import-dependent diesel generation, which ranged from US$0.28 per kWh hour in Male’, and up to US$0.70 per kWh on some of the most inefficient islands.
Existing solar initiatives in the Maldives, such as the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)’s 675 kWh of solar panelling on schools and other public facilities across Male’, were “stupidly priced, uneconomic, symbolic, and don’t address the problem of energy storage,” Mason noted. He also proposed that large scale wind generation suffered from extreme seasonal variability and risked impacting the stability of the grid.
Mason concluded that the most realistic and commercially-viable renewable option was to run 90 percent of the country on solar supplemented by small-scale wind power, while a 24 megawatt biomass plant could provide the baseload of the greater Male’ region at more than 40 percent less than existing rates.
The pricing was attractive, but the challenge was attracting the significant upfront capital investment required: “with renewables, on day one you buy 20 years of electricity,” Mason explained.
Attracting this capital investment was therefore crucial, however “because of its political history and economic inheritance, the Government of Maldives is poorly placed to raise capital at normal ‘sovereign’ rates of interest,” the SREP report noted.
This was to be a key innovation in Mason’s proposal: rather than pour donor funding into myriad haphazard capital-intensive renewable energy projects, Mason’s plan was to instead use the available World Bank and Asia Development Bank funding to dramatically reduce the commercial and sovereign risks for foreign investors, lowering the cost of capital to attractive levels comparable to other countries.
“In practice, the guarantees may not be needed for all projects or by all developers, and once the Maldives becomes an established destination for renewable development finance the need for guarantees is expected to diminish,” the SREP proposal notes.
“Right now the cost of capital, if you are in Germany, is very low. In a country like the Maldives, it is stupidly high,” Mason explained to Minivan News.
“If [the Maldives] wants to get somewhere it has to take out the risk – at least risks not in control of the investor. If you can do that, then the cost of capital drops to 6-7 percent – about the same as a powerplant [in the West]. The whole thing becomes economic – the sensible thing to do – rather than a matter of subsidies,” he explained.
The World Bank team working on the project had given verbal approval for the plan, describing it as one of the most “exciting and transformative” projects of its kind in any country, according to Mason.
“It was a shoo-in. But the coup happened the day we were due to submit it – later that very day, in fact,” he said.
Amid the disintegrating political situation, the decision was made to suspend the submission.
“The whole point of the plan was to take out the instability. The thing about a coup is that it takes that model and turns it upside down,” Mason told Minivan News.
As the political instability increased, so did the cost of capital. Investors who had been “queuing up” made their excuses.
In an email exchange, incoming President Dr Mohamed Waheed Hassan requested that Mason continue with the submission and remain in his current position as Energy Advisor.
Mason chose to resign.
“I don’t think Dr Waheed is a bad man – actually I like him a lot personally,” he wrote, in an email to an official in the Trade Ministry obtained by Minivan News. “However, he has done nothing to assure me that this is really a democratic process. Rather, my intelligence tells me this is a Gayoom inspired coup with Dr. Waheed as an unfortunate puppet.”
Mason added that if the new government sought political accommodation with the MDP, made “a concerted attempt to remove the corrupt judiciary”, and ceased police brutality “so that people can walk the streets freely as in any other civilised country”, “then I will be back on side in the blink of an eye.”
“I have given the best part of my life to this over the last 18 months, but I fear I have a set of democratic and moral principles that override other considerations,” Mason stated.
President Waheed responded on March 23:
“It would be nice if you listened to something other than Nasheed’s propaganda. He is free to go anywhere he wants and say what ever he wants,” Waheed wrote.
“Have you ever thought that Nasheed could have made a stupid mistake under the influence of what ever he was on and blown everything away? I thought you had more intelligence than to think that I am someone’s puppet and Maldives is another dictatorship,” the President said.
Further emails obtained by Minivan News show that Waheed’s new government was interested in continuing with the submission of the SREP plan.
“I am certain that this is the wrong time to press ahead with the SREP IP. It relies at its heart on getting the cost of capital down by reducing risk,” wrote Mason, to a government official.
“That is not believable in an atmosphere in which [airport developer] GMR is being attacked as an investor in infrastructure; the legal system is, frankly, corrupt so contracts cannot be relied upon; the politics are (in the most charitable possible interpretation) a major risk factor; and the President has no parliamentary party of consequence. I also doubt that the SREP sub-committee will approve funding the plan as they too will see through the plan to the problems (or at least they should if they are any good),” he wrote.
“If things clear up, and faith in democracy and the rule of law is restored than a second go at this would be worth while – but meantime I am sceptical. A much more limited and less ambitious plan – say for the smaller islands only, might fly.”
The very premise of the plan – mitigating investor risk – had been scuttled by the political upheaval and both domestic and international challenges to the legitimacy of Waheed’s government, said Mason.
“Even if I did work with Waheed, I couldn’t deliver the plan now [because of falling] investor confidence,” he told Minivan News. “[The perpetrators] have destroyed US$2-3 billion worth of investment and condemned the country to an unstable economic future based upon diesel.”
Climate of crisis
Earlier this month President’s Office Spokesperson Abbas Adil Riza said the new government would “not completely” reverse the previous government’s zero carbon strategy: “What we are aiming to do is to elaborate more on individual sustainable issues and subject them to national debate. Previously, these discussions on sustainability were not subjected to a national debate, such as through parliament,” Riza said.
President Waheed last week attended the Rio +20 summit and announced the Maldives’ intentions to become the world’s largest marine reserve in five years.
During his speech in Rio, Waheed also pledged that the Maldives would “cover 60 percent of our electricity needs with solar power, and the rest with a combination of biofuels, other clean technologies and some conventional energy.”
“Progress towards achieving these goals is slow because of the huge financial and technological investments involved. If we are, as a global community, committed to the concept of transitioning to a green economy, then developing countries will need significant financial and technical support,” the President stated, going on to appeal for financial assistance.
“A small island state like the Maldives cannot, on its own, secure the future we want. We rely on our international partners to ensure that their development paths are sustainable and don’t negatively impact on vulnerable countries like the Maldives,” Waheed said.
Former President Nasheed’s Climate Change Advisor – UK-based author, journalist and environmental activist Mark Lynas, who drew a monthly stipend of Rf10,000 (US$648) for expenses – told Minivan News that the loss of democratic legitimacy in the Maldives had destroyed its ability to make a moral stand on climate change-related issues, and be taken seriously.
“I think that the Maldives is basically a has-been in international climate circles now,” Lynas said.
“The country is no longer a key player, and is no longer on the invite list to the meetings that matter. Partly this is a reflection of the political instability – other countries no longer have a negotiating partner that they know and understand,” he said.
“Partly, I think it is because of the lack of democratic legitimacy of the current regime – in the climate negotiations the entire ask of the small island and vulnerable countries is based on their moral authority to speak on behalf of those who are most suffering from the impacts of climate change.
“Yet Waheed and his representatives have no moral authority because they were not elected, have strong connections with corrupt and violent elements of the former dictatorship, and took power in the dubious circumstances of a police coup,” Lynas argued.
The government’s high expenditure on international public firms such as Ruder Finn – also responsible for the Philip Morris campaign disputing the health hazards of smoking – had further undermined its credibility with journalists across the world, Lynas said.
“Journalists and others are aware that the Waheed regime has hired PR agencies to act on its behalf – which makes them doubly suspicious. It is widely understood that the Maldives post-coup government has no real interest in the climate issue, but is instead trying to use it as a greenwashing tool in order to buff its credentials abroad and in order to obscure its undemocratic nature at home. I don’t think this will work, as it is hardly very subtle and journalists are not stupid,” said Lynas.
“The Maldives has lost many years of work already – it has little credibility left with donors or international investors. Investors and donors alike are looking for stability and strong governance – and they will not get either of those whilst the political system is essentially deadlocked between competing parties, with regular protests and ensuing police violence.
“In climate terms the Maldives is well on its way to becoming a failed state – I see no prospect of it achieving Nasheed’s 2020 carbon neutral goal, even if that goal is still official policy,” Lynas said. “I think time has basically run out now – unless there are early elections quickly and a legitimate government re-established there is no real prospect of resurrecting the Maldives’ leadership on climate change. By 2013, it will certainly be too late – other countries will have overtaken it and the Maldives will essentially be left behind.”
The following is an unofficial translation of the ‘timeline’ released by the three-member Commission of National Inquiry (CNI) into events that took place January 16 to February 7, prior to the commission’s recomposition following Commonwealth pressure. The credibility of the timeline has been challenged by the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), who contested the panel’s impartiality prior to the re-composition and refused to participate. The panel conducted interviews with assorted non-MDP participants. The MDP on 10 June 2012 released its own reports on the events.
On 15 January 2012 Criminal Court ordered the release of Dr Mohamed Jameel Ahmed after Maldives Police Service (MPS) failed to show court any legitimate reason for his arrest
On 16 January 2012 Maldives Police Service summoned Judge Abdulla Mohamed
On January 2012 Chief Judge lodged an appeal at High Court to cancel police summons. High Court ordered an injunction on the summons, until Court reaches a verdict on the appeal.
With the injunction in place, Chief Judge did not arrive at the police station.
The military entered Chief Judge’s home late in the night on 16 January 2012 and brought him under their protection
Ten police officers met with the Police Commissioner on 17 January 2012 saying they were unhappy with unlawful orders being given to them by the government and senior police officers, making it difficult for them to act fairly towards political figures.
Once Chief Judge was arrested, starting from 17 January 2012 , nightly demonstrations were held near the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA) by members of the Opposition Coalition. Coalition protesters called for the release of Chief Judge and for the government to return to the Constitution
President Nasheed met with police officers on 18 January 2012. It was a meeting held to reassure members of the police unhappy with the issue of Criminal Court Chief Judge that the arrest was not unlawful. Audio of what the President said during the meeting was leaked. The audio was leaked by the police.
Police Commissioner and Deputy Commissioner continued to express dissatisfaction with reluctance among Specialist Operations (SO) police to control the protesters.
Two commanders active in controlling protesters were transferred to Bodyguard Training. Three officers stationed in other parts of the country were put under the command of officers in charge of controlling protests.
A team of Maldivian lawyers lodged a case at the International Criminal Court on 23 January 2012 regarding the arrest of the Chief Judge of the Criminal Court.
President Nasheed met with the police on 26 January 2012. He repeated what he said when he met with them on 17 January. An audio recording of the meeting was also leaked
Male’ City Council erected a corrugated iron fence near MMA on 29 January 2012 where the nightly demonstrations were being held, limiting the room for assembly in the area. Police released a statement saying protests were not allowed in the MMA area. They appealed to protesters not to demonstrate in the vicinity and to do so only in empty public spaces.
Vice President met with some leaders of the [Opposition] Coalition on the night of 30 January 2012 at Hilaaleege, his residence. He was asked at the meeting whether he was prepared to carry out his legal responsibilities. He said he was ready to do so. Coalition leaders held a press conference after the meeting to announce their endorsement of the Vice President [for President].
A policeman caught fire on 31 January 2012 when a fireball was thrown at the police during the protests near MMA.
1 February 2012
1 February 2012 Police dispersed the crowds as soon as protests began near MMA.
Following Coalition discussions, protests began at Artificial Beach on 2 February 2012. At the protest, Adhaalath Party leader Imran Abdulla calls for police to arrest President Nasheed within five days [by 8 February].
MDP protesters began a demonstration at Artificial Beach on 4 February 2012 before Coalition began theirs. Coalition protests were held in front of the PPM (Progressive Party of Maldives) Meeting Hall on Boduthakurufaanu Magu.
During protests on 5 February 2012 , Deputy Commissioner ordered SO Commander to remove the live-feed cable strung across Boduthakurufaanu Magu by VTV and DhiTV television stations. The order was not carried out on the basis that it was not a legitimate action without a court order.
6 February 2012
Police Commissioner met with Assistant Police Commissioner Hussein Waheed and told him President Nasheed wishes him to resign as the manner in which he carries out his duties had resulted in a loss of confidence. Assistant Commissioner went home saying he would give his answer within three days.
6 February 2012 (Monday 19:00-20:00hrs)
Police Special Operations (SO) forces came to a state of readiness at the Henveiru Stadium [a few hundred yards from the Artificial Beach] in anticipation of potential events related to protests.
21:00-22:00
As on other nights, Coalition protests began at the Artificial Beach. MDP also began protests in the area.
Two Police SO officers at the Henveiru Stadium went to the area to observe how protests were proceeding. Seeing the atmosphere was not good, police at the Henveiru Stadium went to the Artificial Beach
As protesters on both sides exchanged verbal abuse, police strengthened security in the whole area. They separated protesters into two camps on either side of the stage at the Artificial Beach and inserted two police lines between them.
Police also moved journalists covering the protests live behind the two police lines
On the second consecutive night, SO refused to obey the Deputy Commissioner’s order to remove the broadcast cable being used by VTV and DhiTV to cover the protests saying it was an illegal order and could not be executed without a court order.
22:00-23:00
At the protests Adhaalath Party announces that its National Council had unanimously decided President Nasheed was not a worthy leader and had declared their full support for Dr Mohamed Waheed Hassan Manik.
It was also said at the protest that as President Nasheed had admitted in the international media to have acted against the Constitution, it was the President, the Home Minister and the Defence Minister that the police should arrest.
23:00-00:00
Home Minister asked Police Commissioner to remove police from the area where protests were being held.
Police Operations chief, dispatched to the scene of the protests by the Commissioner reported back that the atmosphere was not good
When Home Minister asked the Commissioner to remove police from the protest area for a second time, Commissioner told the Minister the atmosphere was not good.
President Nasheed called the Commissioner and ordered the police to be removed from the area
Deputy Commissioner inspected the area on orders from the Commissioner and reported the atmosphere was not good
President Nasheed called the Commissioner a second time and ordered him to remove the police from the area, saying confidence in the police has been lost
As police had to be removed from the area, the Commissioner asked the Male’ Commander of the Maldives National Defence Forces (MNDF) to have the military take over the area
Commissioner ordered Deputy Commissioner and Special Operations head to remove police from the area
Tactical Advisor of the Special Operations objected to removing police from the area. His reasons were that the atmosphere in the area was not good and protesters on both sides were in possession of implements that could be used for violence.
On advice of the Tactical Advisor police refused to leave the area and said they would only leave on arrival of replacements.
Suspending the ‘Journey of Justice’ meeting at the MDP Meeting Hall, a large number of them arrived at the Artificial Beach and joined the MDP protest.
President Nasheed personally called three officers who were not a part of the Operations and ordered them to remove police from the area. These three officers arrived at the Artificial Beach and attempted to remove the police from the area.
When the military officers asked the police to leave the area, the Police Commander said they would not leave unless replacements arrive. President Nasheed phoned the Deputy Commissioner to say he was not adequately carrying out his responsibilities, and asked him to stay at home.
Without consulting with any other party, MNDF Male’ Area Commander decided to deploy the military to assist police operations at the Artificial Beach.
A military platoon and a SWAT team arranged themselves in a line on Boduthakurufaanu Magu, west of the Artificial Beach, away from the protesters.
On orders from the police commander all SO (Special Operations) officers left the Artificial Beach area and headed for the Republic Square.
As the Commissioner’s conscience remained unconvinced that removing police from the area was the right decision, a letter of resignation was ordered. The letter was thus prepared and left on the Commissioner’s table.
President Nasheed assured the [MNDF]Male’ Area Commander that none of the MDP protesters in the area would cause unrest and ordered him to move the military officers from the area [Artificial Beach] to the Headquarters.
On receiving the order from President Nasheed to have his officers removed from the area, the Male’ Area Commander considered the situation and, seeing the atmosphere as uneasy, gave the order for them to move to the Saw Mill area instead of the HQ. He thought they may have to return to the Artificial Beach soon if they left.
Once the military left, protesters on both sides started throwing stones and water bottles. Both sides exchanged dangerous assaults. Some protesters and journalists were injured during the attacks.
On receiving news of the attacks, acting on orders of the Male’ Area Commander, the military returned to the Artificial Beach. They placed themselves between the two sides and controlled the unrest.
When police, who were now at the Republic Square, received news of the violence at the Artificial Beach via police, ‘intelligence’ and the radio, SO police consulted among themselves and set out for the Artificial Beach in their vehicles without waiting for any further orders.
Noise at the Republic Square [directly opposite the military HQ] became so loud, the Commissioner and Deputy Commissioner as well as other officers inside the Conference Room ran downstairs.
When they came down some of the vehicles had left the area. Deputy Commissioner and Operations Head tried to stop the remaining vehicles from leaving. The Deputy Commissioner stopped the last truck in the convoy and took away the keys. Some officers who had been in the truck headed to the Artificial Beach on foot. A few police officers stayed at the Republic Square.
7 February 2012 (00:00-01:00hrs)
Coalition alleged on a live television programme that protesters on the two sides had been provoked into a confrontation in order to declare a state of emergency.
Commissioner and an Assistant entered Bandaara Koshi
MNDF Male’ Area Commander told the Ground Commander at the Artificial Beach that the police were arriving there for a confrontation with the military and ordered him to arrest the police.
When police arrived at the scene they did not confront the military. They called on the protesters to leave the area.
Coalition announced that it had finished their protests. However, a large number of Coalition protesters remained on the streets in the area.
Some SOs who went to the Artificial Beach went to the MDP Meeting Hall and caused severe harm to people and property in the area.
A military SWAT squad went to the MDP Meeting Hall area and began manning it
Police returned to the Republic Square, and like all other nights, gathered to fall-in as is customary after Operations are over.
Deputy Commissioner ordered SOs to fall-in on the helipad in the Republic Square. He also ordered the ‘Blues’ to go to the conference hall at the military headquarters.
Police centres Bandaara Koshi and Kalhuthukkalaa Koshi had their alert sirens going.
01:00-02:00
A large number of ‘Blues’ arrive at the Conference Hall on receiving the Deputy Commissioner’s order for the ‘Blues’ to do so.
Six SO Commanders were separated from other officers on orders from the Deputy Commissioner. An officer not part of the command structure encouraged this.
Senior police officers active at the Republic Square called the Commissioner and asked him to come there to meet with the officers present. Commissioner did not agree to the request.
Police left Bandaara Koshi and cordoned off the ‘Green Zone’
On request of the Commissioner, a Deputy Commissioner went inside Bandaara Koshi. The Commissioner, Deputy Commissioner and Defence Minister consulted and agreed to arrest the SO Commanders.
Defence Minister ordered the military to arrest the police officers identified by the Deputy Commissioner
A ten member squad of military officers left Bandaara Koshi to make the arrests.
The SO Commanders who had been separated from the rest of the officers phoned their friends to say they were going to be arrested and taken to Dhoonidhoo [prison island].
On hearing that SO police were to be arrested, ‘Blues’ in the Conference Hall came and joined them.
At this point, [the] two former SO officers who had been transferred to bodyguard training and an officer from the Academy joined the police and began playing a lead role.
The Commanders who had been isolated went and joined the police gathered on the helipad in the Republic Square.
When the military arrived at the Republic Square to arrest some police officers, all the officers on the helipad stood up and came towards the military to object.
Military ground commander notified Military Operations that making the arrests was difficult.
Glass on the outside of the VTV building was smashed and the inside of the building was set on fire. VTV live feed was interrupted for a brief time.
A large number of people belonging to Coalition gathered on the corner of Orchid Magu and Chandhani Magu to protect the Constitution.
Police cordoned off the Republic Square to stop the public and journalists from entering it.
As the number of police in the Republic Square increased, a military platoon on Ameer Ahmed Magu near Bandaara Koshi was coming to a state of readiness and put on gas masks. There were about 200 police officers at the Republic Square both in uniform and plainclothes.
A meeting resumed at the MDP Meeting Hall. Some members of the MDP Parliamentary Group addressed the meeting.
Police at the Republic Square were heard calling for the resignation of President Nasheed.
The media reported that a large number of police officers had been arrested, numbering up to a 50 at the time. The media also reported that the MDP meeting had maintained it would not leave the Meeting Hall until justice had been established, and also that it had called for a state of emergency to be established.
02:00-03:00
One of the three police officers highly active on the Republic Square began issuing orders to the police with a megaphone. He commanded all police officers at the Republic Square to remain united as one.
A Deputy Commissioner appealed to the police to leave the area voluntarily instead of waiting for the military to remove them. However, the police did not heed the Deputy Commissioner’s advice. When he moved away, the police officers in the area demanded that he promise not to issue any illegal orders. But the Deputy Commissioner responded in a manner that implied that he could not make a false promise.
Coalition protesters began braking the temporary fence erected around the MMA area by the Male’ City Council.
The military ground commanders who had stated that it was difficult to make the police arrests were taken to the Operations Rooms and asked to meet with Generals and senior officers. The Defence Minister presided over this meeting.
Military ground commanders reiterated at the meeting that making the arrests were difficult. The reason given was that when the ‘force ratio’ needed in such an operation was considered, the police far out numbered the military and had the same weapons as the military.
When some senior military officers proposed negotiating with the police, it was approved at the meeting.
Police behind cordons fired gas canisters at Coalition protesters gathered near Reef Side [shop].
Vice President speaking via the media at his residence in Hilaaleege called on the military and the police not to obey any illegal orders. “Yes! It is also my duty to say something at a time of such national crisis. I support the peaceful activities of the many to protect the country’s constitution and its faith. It is important at this time that all Maldivian institutions especially those of law enforcement to protect and maintain the Constitution and laws. I call upon everyone not to obey an illegal order. In this sorrowful time, I also call upon the Maldivian security services not to leave room for those seeking to dissolve our security and not to allow any harm to be caused to people and their property, especially the media. It saddens me very much that VTV and other places have been damaged tonight. I call upon those who cause such damage to refrain from doing so. I also assure you that I will do everything I can as the Vice President of this country to free us from this dangerous and tragic time. May Allah return our country to a peaceful and secure state. Amen.”
Media reported that it has been said at the MDP Haruge that President Nasheed is in good health.
A large number of Coalition members were gathering near the MMA. Police had cordoned off the area and banned the public from entering it.
The military got ready to disperse the police at the Republic Square. As a first step, a military officers team was sent to negotiate with the police.
The military entered into discussions with about 10 police officers playing a lead role at the Republic Square.
Police said they will only return to work again if the Commissioners guarantees they would not have to obey any illegal orders. Police also asked that no action be taken against the police officers who had partaken in the night’s activities.
The military assured the police they had no intention of a confrontation between them.
During the discussions the military requested police to go to Bandaara Koshi to meet with the Commissioner. The police, however, wanted it to be at the Shaheed Hussein Adam Building [main military headquarters].
The police negotiation team entered Bandaara Koshi for further discussions with their senior officers which concluded in the decision should the police go to Iskandhar Koshi, the Commissioner would meet them. Negotiation team proposed it to the police once outside.
Police arranged themselves in platoons ready to go to Iskandhar Koshi.
When the police started towards Iskandhar Koshi military conveyed an order from the Home Minister that they should leave without weapons and all riot gear.
One of the police officers playing a lead role at Republic Square addressed the police and offered the advice that no police officer should lay down their weapons.
Police decided that since giving up their weapons and riot gear was a precondition for going to Iskandhar School, they would not go.
Military negotiation team said if the condition was not met, they might have to charge.
A military platoon in combat uniform arranged themselves on the eastern side of the Republic Square near the Big Flag.
Although the police came to a state of readiness when the military platoons formed, some senior police officers were meeting with ground commanders and appealing for non-confrontation.
Members of the public gathered at the Republic Square called for President Nasheed’s resignation.
03:00-04:00
The vehicle for jamming mobile signals was near Mulee Aage [President’s official residence]. But the signal jammer in the vehicle had been broken a week previously.
The news spread that the military had ordered that the police phone network be disconnected. But the police continued to call friends and others on their phones.
In a phone interview with the media at 03:15 President Maumoon [President of what?] called on the police and military to obey the laws. “Yes the news I received. What I am hearing. I am very upset about who did this, and I condemn those who did it. This is private property Also it is a tragedy that Maldivian people’s possessions and lands are being damaged and set on fire. This is very wrong. What I can say is that I condemn this in the loudest voice. Something like this should not be done. I also make the appeal that nobody should do anything to damage anybody’s property or possessions or their lives or bodies. This is our nation. We should not destroy our country with our own hands. We all should obey the laws. Obey Islam. Everybody must according to law. Nobody is exempt. The government has to do the same. The military, the police, the public, parties, everybody should act according to the law. We should all be friendly and resolve this problem and take our country to a safe shore. I would like to say that. Do not set fire to anywhere. Do not do anything you will regret later. Everybody act in the ways that our glorious religion has instructed. Obey our Constitution. Respect our laws. Let’s all unite to save the country. That is what I want to say. What I must say is that it is because the government is acting against the law. Because things are being done against the Constitution and the laws. Especially this judge of the Criminal Court Abdulla Mohamed was taken from his house in the middle of the night is a major atrocity. Something like that should not be done. I too believe that humans err. If somebody commits an offence, there are ways to deal with in law. The same for offences committed by judges. Therefore, it can be examined through these means. However, contrary to this, uprooting someone without notice while they are at home with their family and planting him elsewhere is a major crime. It is also condemned in religion. And it is condemned in our laws and international laws. It should not be done. I call for his immediate release. I call for his release and for the restoration of all his rights as a human being and as a citizen of the Maldives. I also call upon the government and the security forces to do everything according to the law and Constitution. I have to say what I already said before. To act according to our religion and our Constitution. Act according to the law. As you said, given that I am so far away from the events that are happening in the Maldives it is not easy for me to comment on anyone or anything in particular. Because I do not have the complete information. But, as a peace lover and a lover of all things good for the Maldives and its people and a lover of Maldivian development, I also call upon everyone to act in a way that will develop the country, resolve its conflicts, and bring prosperity to its people. I call upon everyone to refrain from doing anything that would harm someone’s life, property or body.”
04:00-05:00
Police at the Republic Square were appealing to the public not to come into the area where they were stationed.
More people kept coming to the MMA area. Coalition protesters took apart over half the fence erected in the area.
When President Nasheed said he wanted to come to the military headquarters, the military began preparing for it. When the president said he was coming on foot, the Security Co-ordinator dispatched to escort him met the president on the Western corner of the Friday Mosque. In addition to bodyguards, MP for Dhaandhoo Area Mohamed Riyaz was with the president.
When President Nasheed entered the main gates of Bandaara Koshi, he addressed some military officers gathered there and said police out there had mutinied and needed to be arrested. He then went inside and into the Defence Minister’s office.
An additional military platoon came out and arranged themselves in front of the Shaheed Hussein Adam building on the east of the Republic Square.
Military began to warn the police in the Republic Square to vacate the area. Police took up their shields and came to a state of readiness.
The sunrise prayers were called at the time
Coalition protesters brought down completely the fence erected near the MMA area.
When they felled the fence, military fired gas canisters into the crowds to try and control them. But some of them entered the Republic Square. Police were warning the public to stand back.
Police made it clear to the military they were ready for a confrontation. Police were warning the public to be calm and to leave the area.
Some members of the police tried to calm down fellow officers.
At the time MNDF Male’ Area Commander and two other senior officers were at the Square.
The Officer in Charge of the Armoury ordered his subordinates not to handover the keys without his prior permission to anyone, no matter who gives the order.
All bullets used in patrol were confiscated from all military officers on duty.
05:00-06:00
A Minister asked one of the military officers at the gates to arrange for some MDP people coming towards Reef Side to be allowed into the republic Square through the police barricades. A senior officer in the Male’ Area Command said he would make the arrangements and went inside.
The police cordons near MMA were moved forward past the MMA while police cordons near the Reef Side and Islamic Centre junction were moved back towards the Bandaara Koshi.
A number of MDP activists armed with wooden planks and sharp implements arrived in a pick-up truck came through the Islamic Centre lane and entered the Republic Square to confront the police.
Police and Coalition protesters confronted them and pushed them back.
Police ordered the public not to enter into the confrontation between the police and the military. Police assured the public that nothing will go wrong.
Police cordoned off the western side of Republic Square and pushed the public back.
Members of the military carrying shields on the eastern side of the Square pushed back up to Jumhooree Hin’gun
President Nasheed ordered the Commissioner to go to the Republic Square to meet with the police.
It was announced at the Republic Square that the Commissioner will meet the police.
Commissioner left the Bandaar Koshi and went into the Shaeedh Hussein building without meeting with the police.
Police said they would not initiate a confrontation with the military. But said they were ready for a confrontation if the military were to initiate one.
It was announced that the Commissioner would not meet the police in the Republic Square. He ordered the police to go to the Iskandhar Koshi if they wanted to meet him.
Police arranged themselves in platoons with the police in riot gear at the front and they began to pray loudly. Verbal exchanges took place between senior police and military officers.
Military officers who had come out to confront the police and were near the Shaheed Hussein Adam building retreated back into the Bandaara Koshi.
President Nasheed met with the platoon that retreated into the Bandaara Koshi. He asked the commander if he had any reservations in carrying out the order to arrest the police. When he answered in the affirmative, the president replied it was all right for him to stand aside without participating in the Operations. Two other commanders said they too had reservations and stepped aside.
The Minister arranged for a new ground commander.
06:00-07:00
When the Coalition protests were going on at the MMA area, the police had cordoned off the Reef Side area and the Islamic Centre lane.
Members of the public at the Republic Square provided the police with water and food.
07:00-08:00
President Nasheed went for a walk inside Bandaara Koshi. He met and talked with about three groups of military persons during the walk.
Suddenly, without consulting with the military, President Nasheed went to the Republic Square and began addressing the police. In addition to the bodyguards who accompanied him, Defence Minister and Chief of Defence Forces were with him. When he spoke, some MPs were also beside him. “I am still talking to the Maldivian police. I think you have done something wrong. I accept that given the way things happened you may not have properly realised what you were doing or where you were going. But, it is still my wish that you hand yourselves over to the police station or to the military. I assure you that I will not allow anything bad to happen to you.”
Police refused to accept President Nasheed’s proposal to hand themselves over to the military.
President Nasheed called over to him one of the policemen who he sent over to the military. When he called a second policeman, even though he came over, returned to sit with the police who had started protesting.
When a policeman called for President Nasheed’s resignation, a senior police officer stopped him. When the president began returning to the military headquarters, the police shouted loudly.
En route to the military headquarters, President Nasheed stopped to speak to two MPs where Ameer Ahmed Magu and Jumhooree Magu meet.
Police called on the public to leave and for journalists to stay in a designated area.
President Nasheed returned to the Bandaara Koshi and called many people on the phone.
Some people affiliated with MDP gathered at the Reef Side, calling for traitors to be arrested.
Police left the Republic Square to block all roads leading to the Republic Square.
Police continued to demand that they not be given any unlawful orders. Police were also calling loudly for the public to refrain from joining in the conflict and to stay away from it.
All police were ordered into Bandaara Koshi because President Nasheed wanted to meet with them. Even the police manning the cordons abandoned their posts when ordered into the meeting.
Police entered Bandaara Koshi, removed their gear, and sat down in the area designated for religious sermons.
Police arranged themselves into U-shape lines to the east of the helipad on Republic Square and began reciting their mission [azum] loudly.
As the police were finishing their recital, a group of MDP protesters holding hands approached the police from the back. Police and Coalition protesters confronted them and dispersed them. Several MDP people and police were injured during the attempts to stop the confrontation. Rumours spread among the police that one of their members had been stabbed in the neck with steel rod.
President Nasheed watching the scene from the second floor of Bandaara Koshi came running down, crossed the main gate area and stood on the sports verandah. From there he returned to the main gate area, and on the way stopped at the Officers’ Mess Room and looked inside.
When the noise outside the main gate area of Bandaar Koshi became very loud, members of the military who were waiting to meet with the president ran towards the main gate assuming that people were trying to force their way into the military headquarters.
When the military who were running towards the gate realised that nobody was trying to force their way in, they returned to the building without venturing out. Those who did go out arranged themselves in a line across Ameer Ahmed Magu.
Standing inside the main gates of Bandaara Koshi, President Nasheed kept ordering the military to go out and confront the police. Some ministers and an MP with the president kept repeating his orders. Some military personnel, who had gone out without their gear kept returning inside to collect it.
08:00-09:00
Police approached the military personnel standing across Jumhooree Hin’gun and asked them not to attack them. Some of the military who had come out of the building joined with the police.
While members of the military who had come out began to engage in verbal exchanges with the police instead of preparing for a confrontation, a gas canister was thrown from behind the police near the gates of Bandaara Koshi.
From here onwards police released a lot of gas. A large number of the military and public at Republic Square dispersed from the area as a result. The way the wind was blowing that day, all the gas travelled south towards Bandaar Koshi. Shortly afterwards, the police moved forward spraying tear gas as they approached. The police and the public threw at the military anything they could get their hands on. The confrontation on both sides was intense and the public, military and the police sustained varying degrees of injuries.
Public and the police confronted the military and pushed them back as far as their main headquarters. As the military retreated, they were firing riot guns.
Once most of the military on retreat had entered the headquarters, the main gates were shut. Some members of the military could not get in and had to remain outside.
Police and public were throwing bottles and various other things in the whole area. Chairs and various other household equipment were also thrown onto the streets and into the Bandaara Koshi from within the building.
Windows on the first floor of the military headquarters were opened and shields were distributed to military personnel and the public.
All areas near the Republic Square were brought under police control. The area was under the supervision of the police and the public.
President Nasheed’s wife and two children were moved from Mulee Aage to a safe area by her security detail on her request.
09:00-10:00
Cabinet Secretariat notified all cabinet members via SMS, except Vice President, that the cabinet meeting was on that day. Although the Vice President’s secretariat was aware of the meeting, Dr Waheed did not receive the message. Two senior members of the Vice President’s secretariat did not report for work that day.
En route to the cabinet meeting, president of MDP Ibrahim Didi (Dr Didi) called the president on the phone and discussed how to bring about a resolution to the political turmoil. Dr Didi’s proposal was to talk to all the main political parties and issue a joint statement. President Nasheed agreed to the suggestion.
Dr Didi contacted the leader of DRP [Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party] on the phone and asked him for assistance in issuing a joint statement. Thasmeen replied that he cannot proceed without a sign to do so from President Nasheed.
Parliamentary Leader of PPM Abdulla Yameen was also contacted. Yameen also replied that he could not proceed without a sign from President Nasheed himself. Dr Didi called President Nasheed and conveyed the message.
Dr Didi met with those who attended the cabinet working session at the Izzuddheen Hall at President’s Office and told them discussions were underway, with guidance from President Nasheed, to issue a joint statement from all political parties.
When some Ministers asked why President Nasheed was not present, and objected to such a discussion being chaired by Dr Didi in his absence, Chief of Staff at the President’s Office placed a conference call to the President. The call could be heard by everyone present.
During the discussions between the president and the cabinet one Minister asked why Criminal Court Chief Judge had not been released as previously agreed. President Nasheed replied even that could not be accomplished. When another Minister asked him how he was and how things were at the military headquarters, he replied everything was fine at the headquarters and that he had just had a cup of tea and was lying down resting.
Some ministers left the cabinet meeting then, saying the meeting could not go ahead without President Nasheed.
When the session was over Dr Didi phoned President Nasheed again and asked his opinion on how to continue with the problem of the joint statement, the president told Didi to proceed in consultation with North Machchangolhi MP Mariya Didi and Hinnavaru MP Ibrahim Mohamed Salih (Ibu).
Former Assistant Commissioner of Police Abdulla Riyaz and former Deputy Commissioner Mohamed Fayaz had a discussion on the phone from their respective homes about the events at Republic Square and decided to go to the Square. Fayaz had been on the phone with police officers at the Republic Square since the night before, gathering information. Riyza was calling Fayaz and getting updates from him.
10:00-11:00
Mariya Ahmed Didi did not answer the phone, so Dr Didi rang Ibrahim Mohamed Salih who said he will respond after talking to President Nasheed.
When he did not hear from Salih after a while, Dr Didi again phoned President Nasheed who told him that the Indian High Commissioner D.M.Mullay was attending to it and that he would be contacting Dr Didi
High Commissioner Mullay phoned Dr Didi and asked him if he could come to the Indian High Commission (Athireege Aage)
When Dr Didi arrived at the High Commission Abdulla Yameen was already there. Mullay said Ahmed Thasmeen Ali was also to attend the meeting. High Commissioner said he had called Thasmeen and he would make all the administrative arrangements for the meeting once he arrived.
The main purpose of the meeting held at the High Commission was to speak with opposition leaders and secure a three day grace period for the government to try and resolve the conflict.
When Abdulla Yameen questioned Dr Didi’s status at the meeting he said he was there as a representative of President Nasheed at his behest.
Ibrahim Mohamed Salih phoned Yameen and said President Nasheed had decided to resign.
Yameen told Dr Didi, who phoned the president for confirmation. Without giving him an answer, President Nasheed asked Dr Didi to hand the phone over to Yameen. In his conversation with Yameen, he said he had decided to resign and asked Yameen to arrange protection for him and his family. Yameen said he would do everything he can to do so.
Yameen left saying there was no further need for the meeting as President Nasheed had decided to resign.
At the police main headquarters, Shaheed Hussein Adam Building, the police flag was lowered completely and the national flag lowered to half-mast.
The three police officers who had been active at the Artificial Beach area on 6 February 2012 were apprehended and detained within the police station.
Military personnel who were at the gates of their headquarters waved at the police in celebration.
A group of military personnel who wanted to join the police outside asked President Nasheed if the Male’ Area Commander would arrest them if they did so, the president ordered that they should not be arrested.
The military personnel who came from Kalhuthukkalaa Koshi joined the police.
The public and police at Republic Square called for President Nasheed’s resignation.
When a military General advised the president that the only way to stop the police now was to use guns, Nasheed prohibited the use of guns under any circumstances.
Police at the Republic Square warned that the military may open fire at them. They also warned the public to lie down if the military started firing.
Former police officers Mohamed Fayaz and Abdulla Riyaz, with former military officer Mohamed Nazim, went to the main gates of the headquarters. Their wish was that the military did not fire into the police gathered at the Republic Square. The military demanded from them [the three men] to push back the police at the gates of their headquarters.
Mohamed Fayaz spoke to the police gathered at the Republic Square and persuaded them to go back as far as the Shaheed Hussein Building and emptied the area near the gates of Bandaara Koshi.
Fayaz appealed to the military very loudly not to use any lethal weapons. A military general asked Fayaz to get the police to renew their oath. Fayaz replied that it could not be done in such a situation.
Fayaz proposed that the three branches of government discuss and find a resolution to the problem of the police gathered at the Republic Square. He made the proposal, while standing outside the gates of the headquarters, to the Chief of Defence Force and generals inside. With this proposal police made efforts to bring the Speaker of the Parliament and Chief Justice to the area.
Fayaz went into the crowds gathered at the republic Square with a megaphone and addressed them to explain his proposal and to calm the crowd down.
Police were unsuccessful in their attempts to bring the Speaker of the Parliament and Chief Justice to the area.
A Chief Inspector at the main headquarters of the police was brought out to be sent home as a protective measure. However, when he refused, he was taken to Ghaazee Building. As he was being taken to a speedboat to carry him to Dhoonishoo [prison island], as a protective measure, police and members of the public attacked him.
Deputy Commissioner and some senior officials were taken out of Male’ on police speedboats.
10:00-11:00
Abdulla Riyaz and Mohamed Nazim entered Bandaara Koshi on invitation from Defence Minister. When Nazim entered the premises a large number of military personnel greeted him and celebrated.
Riyaz and Nazim met with the Defence Minister. In addition to the Defence Minister, Chief of Defence Force, generals and Staff Officer were also present at the meeting.
Media reports reported members of the public at the Republic Square as saying President Nasheed had been arrested.
When Qaumee Party leader Dr Hassan Saeed received news that Indian military were arriving to help resolve the situation, he clarified the news from the Indian High Commission. Deputy leader of the Qaumee Party announced to the public at the Republic Square that Dr Hassan Saeed had received assurances from the Indian High Commission that Indian military will not be coming to the Maldives.
Led by the Qaumee Party, two members of the public filed a case at the Supreme Court in relation to President Nasheed’s legal status.
After Abdulla Riyaz and Nazim conducted their negotiations inside Bandaara Koshi, Nazim emerged to address the Republic Square. He said he had made two proposals. “Assalaam alaikum. I hope everybody is okay. Yes, I have just met with the Defence Minister and all high-ranking military personnel and made a proposal of ours. The proposal was that the President should resign without condition. And, after that, to transfer all powers to the Vice President. Our second condition was that the Commissioner of Police Ahmed Faseeh and both his deputies resign at once. We told them these are non-negotiable conditions. These are not things up for further discussion. We assure the beloved Maldivians, military and police who are with us that, God willing, these things will happen this way by the deadline we have set for 1:30 today. When I entered the military headquarters I was given a very happy scene. Everyone within the military lifted me up and very completely revealed their support for me. God willing, things will happen today as we want. I ask the military, police and people to patiently remain with us.”
Some former police and military personnel were operating in the Republic Square.
Police started patrolling different areas of Male’.
Assistant Police Commissioner Hussein Waheed, who had previously been asked to resign, was brought back to the main police headquarters in a police van. When he arrived, he met with some of the political figures in the Coalition waiting there in anticipation of the arrival of Chief Judge of the Criminal Court in Male’.
President Nasheed came down to the yard in the military headquarters and met with some military personnel of other ranks and asked their opinion on what he should do next. He addressed a particular person within the group, who replied that he should resign. President Nasheed replied that it was the response of only one person and asked if others in the group shared the opinion. They all lifted their arms up in agreement. Although Chief of Staff and military generals and other officers were present, they did not partake in the interaction.
It was announced at the Republic Square that President Nasheed had decided to resign and that the resignation will be at the President’s Office in front of the media. Members of the public began to celebrate at the Republic Square when they heard the news.
Nazim appealed to the people gathered not to harm the President on his way to the Office.
President Nasheed wanted to walk to the Office to resign [only a few metres away] and even though he said nobody would harm him, the military was of the opinion that it would be risky and refused.
Speaker of the Parliament released a statement regarding the unrest in Male’: “The Maldivian nation is currently facing a frightening and tragic situation. I appeal to all the people of the Maldives and to its institutions to wholly obey the Constitution and the laws of the land. I also call upon all the people and institutions not to engage in any unlawful activities under any circumstances. All citizens should remain friendly and calm, and give priority to peace. What we are seeing today is not something that anyone of us want to see on our beloved land. None of us want people to damage the life and property of others or the property of the state. We should always remember that we are people steadfast in our Islamic faith and call upon you to maintain our sense of brotherhood as instructed in the religion. My prayer is that this country will always remain safe and peaceful.”
12:00-01:00
Chief Judge of the Criminal Court was brought to Male’ in a police speedboat.
Media arrived for a press conference at the President’s Office on their invitation
President Nasheed arrived at the President’s Office in a car. The military were around the car, maintaining security. But the street hit the car on the back a few times and a cigarette butt was thrown at the front of it. A large number of people from the general public were shouting loudly at the time. Some people were shouting filth.
Nazim and Fayaz went into the President’s Office ahead of the car in which the President was travelling. Following behind the car were the President’s SPG, Chief of Defence Force and Military Operations Commander.
When the car arrived at the President’s Office, the President went up the lift designated for him. With him were the Defence Minister, Security Co-ordinator and bodyguard.
Before getting into the lift, President Nasheed instructed a member of staff to show Nazim, Fayaz and Abdulla Riyaz to a comfortable place.
Off the lift, the President went to his room (Utheemu Room). He was alone.
He then went to Siththimaavaa Maalam to meet with the cabinet. Normally, cabinet meetings are held at Izzuddheen Maalam.
Minister of Fisheries and Agriculture, Minister of Education, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Minister of Human Resources, Youth and Sports, Minister of Economic Development, Minister of Home Affairs,
Minister of Defence and National Security, Minister of Finance, Minister of Transport and Communication, Special Envoy to the President, Chief of Staff at the President’s Office, and Cabinet Secretary were in attendance.
At the meeting the President said he had to resign and gave his reasons. He said under the circumstances he saw it best to resign.
A Minister disagreed. Another suggested that he negotiates with the people gathered. And another proposed seeking external assistance. President Nasheed indicated that he did not see negotiations were possible given the situation at Republic Square, and said there was nothing else to do except resign.
Having concluded the cabinet meeting, en route to Dharumavantha Maalam where the press conference was to be held, President Nasheed stopped at Ghaazee Maalam. The Cabinet Secretary and Chief of Staff accompanied him.
While he was at the Ghaazee Maalam, Nazim, Fayaz and Riyaz also came in.
Nazim told President Nasheed that Speaker of Parliament Abdulla Shahid had enquired after the resignation letter President Nasheed was sending to the Majlis.
President Nasheed asked the Cabinet Secretary about the resignation letter who replied that it had not yet been prepared. The president asked him to bring a pen and paper. When the President’s official Letterhead paper and a pen were brought, President Nasheed wrote the resignation letter in his own hand and signed it. He was standing at a podium in the room.
Having written the resignation letter President Nasheed went into Dharumavantha Maalam for the press conference. Nazim, Riyaz and Fayaz followed him into the room.
President Nasheed announced his resignation himself, in the presence of the cabinet members, in front of the media, live, at 12:57 p.m. “Beloved citizens of the Maldives. I see that if I were to continue as President of the Maldives a lot of harm may befall Maldivians and the Maldives. Therefore, as of today, I am resigning from the post of the President of the Maldives. I have never wanted to rule by force. I came to this decision because, in my opinion, I sincerely believe, that if this government is to be maintained, it would require the use of extreme force and cause harm to a lot of citizens. Also, in my opinion, if attempts are to be made to maintain this government, it is very likely that the Maldives will become susceptible to foreign influences. I have always wished the best for Maldivians and will continue to do so in the future. I have made the decision today to resign for the benefit of Maldivians, with sincere respect and keeping in mind the high levels of support Maldivians have shown me. I hope that Maldivians will see a more prosperous tomorrow and I pray our lives will be good now and in the hereafter.”
13:00-14:00
Abdulla Riyaz asked the Cabinet Secretary if the resignation letter President Nasheed wrote had been sent. When he replied that the letter was in Dispatch, Riyaz and Fayaz collected the letter from the Dispatch to take it to the Majlis. When Dispatch handed the letter over to Riyaz he was instructed to fill out a receipt and return it.
Police Commissioner signed his resignation letter at the main police headquarters.
After announcing his resignation, President Nasheed went up to the fifth floor of the President’s Office and met and greeted some members of staff.
President Nasheed said he wanted to return to his official residence Mulee Aage on foot, and did so.
Before he left, the military arranged a three-line strong cordon to reinforce security in the area.
Riyaz and Nazim accompanied President Nasheed. Riyaz had the President’s resignation letter in his hand at the time.
When President Nasheed went into Mulee Aage, Riyaz went to the main police headquarters and handed over the resignation letter to a police officer to take it to the Majlis. He also asked him to fill out the receipt and return it to the President’s Office once the letter had been received at the Majlis.
Speaker of the Parliament received President Nasheed’s resignation letter at 13:43
The police officer who delivered the letter to the Majlis returned to the main police headquarters with the receipt of delivery, which was then sent to the President’s Office.
14:00-15:00
President Nasheed requested to go to his own home from the official residence of Mulee Aage. The Security Co-ordinator, via the Bodyguard, told President Nasheed to wait at Mulee Aage until security arrangements were put in place for him to make the move. The Co-ordinator made the request for time because he had not discussed with senior military officers and received the security clearance.
Police revealed in the media that no senior officials of President Nasheed’s government were allowed to leave the country.
15:00-16:00
Vice President Dr Mohamed Waheed Hassan Manik took the oath of office as President at the administrative office of the Majlis. The oath was administered by Chief Justice Ahmed Faiz Hussein in the presence of the Speaker of Majlis. “I do swear in the name of Almighty Allah that I will respect the religion of Islam, that I will uphold the Constitution of the Republic of Maldives and the fundamental rights of the Maldivian citizens, that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the Republic of Maldives, and will discharge the duties and responsibilities of the office of President honestly and faithfully in accordance with the Constitution and laws of the Republic of Maldives.”
18:00-19:00
As he had repeatedly requested, arrangements were made for President Nasheed to return to Kenereege [his family home]. He left Mulee Aage through the southern gate and went to Kenereege accompanied by Security Co-ordinator, the military, and bodyguards.Inside MNBC One 7 February 2012, Tuesday
MNBC One continued their transmissions throughout the night of 6 February 2012. In addition to showing the meeting being held at the MDP Haruge, some senior official’s in Nasheed’s administration were on, speaking in support of the government. In between, they also broadcast patriotic songs about the military.
Coalition members at the Republic Square expressed dissatisfaction with the fact that none of the unrest there was being shown on MNBC One.
06:00-09:00
Some political figures who support the government said, in a live programme shown on MNBC One, that President Nasheed was safe, and that the events involving the police were the work of a few. While this programme was being shown, the ticker at the bottom of the screen said: ‘Unsuccessful coup”.
A large number of MDP activists were seen active near the MNBC One and the MDP Meeting Hall.
09:00-10:00
After discussions among senior executives at MNBC One, to protect itself from potential attacks from a public dissatisfied with lack of proper information, and after discussions with senior VTV executives, a decision was made to broadcast a clean-feed from VTV.
MNBC One was not providing sufficient information to the public, so Adhaalath Party’s Sheikh Imran Abdulla arrived at MNBC One to rectify the situation. He was sent away by MDP activists in the front yard of MNBC One.
When Sheikh Imran was sent away from MNBC One he called a senior police officer at the Republic Square and asked them to send police over to MNBC One.
When the live programmes on MNBC One was interrupted, Ali Waheed (Silverscene) [President Waheed’s brother] went over to MNBC One to check what was happening. When he was sent away from MNBC One by MDP activists in the yard, he lingered outside for a while and went home.
10:00-11:00
When a police team arrived at MNBC One, some MDP activists started attacking them with stones and wooden planks. When this happened, the senior officer in the team phoned an officer at Republic Square and told him that MNBC One could not be approached without reinforcements.
When police and military arrived at MNBC One in a truck, MDP activists attacked them.
More police and military arrived at MNBC One, sprayed tear gas, and dispersed the MDP activists.
MNBC One began broadcasting VTV live-feed of the events at Republic Square.
Police and military were unsuccessful in their attempts to open the main gate of MNBC One, which was locked. They fired a riot gun at the gate but it did not open until after the lock was shaken about and broken.
Some Coalition activists also entered MNBC One with the police and military.
Police and military went to the MDP Meeting Hall and caused great destruction.
Police entered the administration area of MNBC One, and led all members of staff there into Studio Three
The military who accompanied the police MNBC One went into Studio Three and assured them that no staff was in danger, and told them to continue with their jobs. They also said that if any member of staff felt they were in danger, the military would ensure their safe passage home.
Some MNBC One staff were taken home under military protection.
Some members of the Maldives Broadcasting Commission were active within MNBC One.
The name of MNBC One was changed to Television Maldives and it continued broadcasting with the TVM logo.
Ali Waheed went to MNBC One a second time and waited in the yard. When he heard of President Nasheed’s resignation, he went into MNBC One to see how things were going.
Once President Waheed took oath of office he instructed [Ali] Waheed to take over TV. He notified the staff, and did so.
Inside the Police Headquarters (7 February, Tuesday 10:00-13:00)
With the police gathering at Republic Square, senior police officers who felt the leadership of Commissioner and Deputy Commissioners were not up to par, held a meeting. They discussed the most suitable person to temporarily take over police leadership. It was also said seeking the Commissioner’s opinion was a good idea and it was suggested he should be invited to the meeting.
Two senior police officers met with Commissioner Faseeh. They questioned him about how he intended to deal with the situation. They also provided the information that President Nasheed was resigning. The Commissioner replied he had decided a long time ago to resign.
The two officers informed the Commissioner they were meeting in the conference room and told him they would like him to attend. They returned to the meeting.
The most senior officer present at the time, Assistant Commissioner Mohamed Sadiq, was proposed and supported as the person to take over the leadership temporarily. Sadiq, however, refused.
When all other senior officers refused to take over, after a vote, it was decided that Chief Inspector Abdulla Fairoosh will take over as interim leader of the Maldives Police Service.
As the meeting concluded, the Commissioner arrived and told them to serve without political influence and advised them to do everything right. He shook hands with the officers and returned to his office.
It was announced at the Republic Square that Abdulla Fairoosh had been given leadership of the police.
When senior police officers advised him that he should give a press conference and that he should be in official dress when he does so, Fairoosh went home to put it on.
Inside the police headquarters he met with the media and went into the crowds gathered to announce he had taken over the police.
On request of senior political figures of the Coalition, senior police officers met with them in a conference room on the fifth floor of the police headquarters. Police requested that political parties do not interfere with police business. They also requested that supporters of political figures be kept off the streets. While the meeting was going on, President Nasheed phoned the leader of DRP and told him of his intention to resign. The DRP leader conveyed the message to the meeting.
Among the people who attended the meeting were DRP leader, PPM Parliamentary Group leader, and senior members of the Coalition.
The meeting was concluded when the political leaders went to meet and greet Chief Criminal Court Judge who was being brought back to Male’. The political leaders who were at the meeting met with Chief Judge at a lounge on the ground floor of the police headquarters.
Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has condemned the stabbing of well-known Maldivian journalist and blogger Ismail ‘Hilath’ Rasheed.
Rasheed had his throat slashed outside his house in Male’ around 8:15pm on Monday night, and was rushed to ADK Hospital for emergency surgery. Sources at the hospital said that the attack severed his trachea (windpipe), missing a vital artery “by millimetres”, and initially gave him a five percent chance of survival.
Hospital staff stabilised Rasheed’s condition around 2:30am on Tuesday, and as of Wednesday evening his condition was said to be improving. An informed source told Minivan News that Rasheed was unable to speak due to his injuries, but had communicated with his parents in writing.
“This knife attack has all the hallmarks of a targeted murder attempt,” Reporters Without Borders said in a statement.
“Rasheed has made many enemies through his outspoken blogging. The authorities in charge of the investigation should not rule out the possibility that this was linked to his journalistic activity. He is a well-known journalist who has repeatedly been censored, arrested and threatened.
“The police must, as a matter of urgency, put a stop to the harassment of Rasheed and take the issue of his safety seriously. Any lack of response on their part will constitute a criminal failure to assist a person in danger,” RSF stated.
The organisation noted that Rasheed had previously been attacked on December 10, 2011, suffering a fractured skull “while attending a peaceful demonstration in support of religious tolerance.”
“The police then arrested him for taking part in the demonstration and held him until 9 January,” RSF added, noting that Rasheed’s blog, www.hilath.com, had also been blocked on the orders of Ministry of Islamic Affairs on 19 November 2011 on the grounds that it contained “anti-Islamic” material.
“If it is confirmed that the attack was prompted by his journalism and blogging, Rasheed would be the first journalist to have been the target of a murder attempt in Maldives,” RSF observed.
The Maldives Journalist Association (MJA) has also condemned the attack on Rasheed.
“The violent attack on Hilath was an attempt to kill him. The association calls on the authorities to find those who had involved in this crime and bring them to justice,” the MJA stated.
“We call on the police and political figures of this country to stop quarrelling for power and make the country – especially the capital Male’ – a place where families and children can live without fear.”
The MJA added that if the trend of violent murders across the country continued, the resulting impact on the country’s tourism-based economy would be “irrevocable”.
Minister for Human Resources and spokesperson for former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, Mohamed ‘Mundhu’ Shareef, told AFP that while the government condemned the attack, “Hilath must have known that he had become a target of a few extremists.”
“We are not a secular country. When you talk about religion there will always be a few people who do not agree,” Shareef said.
Police Sub-Inspector Hassan Haneef meanwhile said that while no arrests had been made, police had obtained CCTV footage of the area and were in the process of analysing it.
Police were also investigating the stabbing of a Bangladeshi man at 11pm on the same evening, Haneef said. The victim suffered minor injuries and was discharged from hospital on Tuesday.
The Maldives was ranked 73rd out of 179 countries in the 2011-2012 Reporters Without Borders press freedom index. The country jumped from 148th in 2005 to 51st in 2009, following the introduction of multiparty democracy and freedom of expression.
Former President Mohamed Nasheed has met with journalists, think tanks and political and industry leaders during a visit to India to build support for early presidential polls in the Maldives.
Nasheed alleges that he and his party were ousted in a bloodless coup following a police mutiny on February 7.
The Washington Post carried Nasheed’s warning that in the absence of early elections, “Islamic radicals are gaining strength in the Maldives.”
The Adhaalath Party – a former coalition partner of Nasheed’s party – won no parliamentary seats and performed poorly in the presidential elections, “but after the coup, they have three portfolios in the cabinet, they are calling the shots in the military, and they are consolidating their position,” the Washington Post reported Nasheed as saying.
Given his government’s liberal approach to government, Nasheed expressed disappointment at the reaction of powers such as the United States to his ousting.
“We did so much to make the Maldives more liberal,” Nasheed said. “The United States could have held onto their horses for a few minutes and just asked me. To so quickly recognise the status quo, that was very sad and shocking.”
According to the Hindu, Nasheed claimed to have received a seven-page document from military intelligence services a week before the coup, warning of a plot by the former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom to overthrow his government, “However, the officer concerned was promptly replaced [by the Army],” the paper reported.
“When I went to the military’s headquarters [on February 7], it turned out everyone was on leave; there were only about 200 people there. The 200 people there were not willing to defend the elected government; the generals, bar two, were supportive of Mr Gayoom,” Nasheed told the paper.
Nasheed said he had rejected the use of firearms by a group of loyal supporters: “I knew that was going to end either with many deaths or with my being lynched,” he said. “So I agreed to resign.”
Nasheed suggested that the international community could influence the new regime by implementing travel sanctions against senior figures, reported AFP, as “many of them have second homes in Europe.”
During his visit to India, Nasheed called on the Indian private sector to continue to invest in the Maldives, but emphasised that a stable democracy was in the interest of foreign investors.
“We want to be responsible. Even though we have been ousted in a coup, [the MDP] want to encourage businesses to continue to invest in the Maldives,” Nasheed said.
Nasheed will be meeting Indian political leadership, including Indian Foreign Secretary Ranjan Mathai, on April 23, and potentially Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, according to Indian media reports.
“We want more Indian assistance in bringing democracy back,” Nasheed told the Times of India. ”I think [elections in] August is reasonable. The more time you give the present dictatorship, the more entrenched they will get; and hence early elections are very important. The dictatorial and military regime, backed by Gayoom, should end at the earliest and should be replaced by a government elected by the people,” he said.
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