Parliament to take up bill criminalising genocide and economic sabotage

The People's Majlis has re-agendized a bill that would criminalise acts against a specific religion and acts that cause major damage to the national economy, after it was removed from today's agenda. The bill, submitted by Maafannu Dhekunu MP Abdulla Rifau (Bochey) of the PNC, proposes adding a new section after Section 140 of the Penal Code to define and punish such crimes. Deputy Speaker Ahmed Usham stated that the bill is intended to bring the Maldives into compliance with the international convention on the prevention and punishment of genocide. The bill has sparked discussion on social media, with some suggesting it is linked to concerns over the Ras Malé project, a major development awarded to UAE's Eagle Hills, and potential Israeli involvement. The government has previously stated that Israeli citizens and companies will not be allowed to purchase property under the project. The first reading of the bill is scheduled for tomorrow's session.