President Muizzu Says Shahid Sexual Assault Case Serious, Due Process Must Be Followed

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu stated that the allegations against former Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) president and former Foreign Minister Abdullah Shahid, who was arrested on suspicion of sexual assault, are serious, and that due process must be conducted fairly. President Muizzu made the remarks during a press conference today, responding to statements linking the case to the government. He said no political figure has been arrested by this government, nor will one be arrested for political motives, asserting that Shahid's arrest was not a politically motivated case. Shahid was arrested under a court order on suspicion of sexually assaulting a child under 18. His detention was subsequently extended by 30 days. Prior to his arrest, Shahid posted on X, describing the allegations as politically motivated lies and baseless falsehoods.