President Muizzu says suspending death penalty not a ruler's right, submits bill for hanging

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has stated that suspending the execution of the death penalty for individuals whose legal proceedings have been completed is not a right granted to the ruler of an Islamic state. The President made the remarks in connection with a bill submitted to the People's Majlis outlining specific procedures for determining and implementing the death penalty in the Maldives. Speaking at a press conference at the Presidential Office, President Muizzu noted that while no previous government has wished to implement the death penalty, implementing Islamic law in a one hundred percent Islamic nation is the most important policy of his government. The President said it is not an option for the state to withhold implementation of sentences against criminals after all stages of the court process have been completed. He stressed that this matter must be carried out through strong legal frameworks with clear procedures, rather than merely under rules or guidelines. Under the bill, the rights of both parties will be clearly outlined. The President highlighted that the bill includes all procedures determined in Islamic Sharia, such as the completion of three stages of judicial proceedings, the right of heirs to forgive, and situations where implementation can be suspended due to illness or pregnancy. The President acknowledged there will be entities opposing the implementation of the death penalty, but said his government is working to establish justice and implement Islamic Sharia law. The bill, submitted by Guraidhoo constituency member Hanan Mohamed Rashid on behalf of the government, specifies that the death penalty will be implemented via hanging in the Maldives.