Maldives: State of emergency ends March 22

Event

On Thursday, March 22, the state of emergency that had been in place since early February amid political upheaval was allowed to expire as planned. The day prior, former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom (1978-2008) and several other officials (e.g. senior judges) were charged with "terrorism" for attempting to topple the current government of President Abdulla Yameen. They were charged under the state of emergency laws imposed in February.

Context

Gayoom has been held since February 5, a day the state of emergency was declared, deepening the country's political crisis. Yameen also exploited the emergency laws to prevent himself from being impeached by parliament after he lost his majority following a Supreme Court ruling on February 1. In recent years, political protests and demonstrations have become common in Malé, the capital city. Some have led to violence and arrests.

Advice

Individuals present in the Maldives are advised to comply with local security requirements and to avoid all protests and rallies.