Maldives: Protest organized in Malé February 20 /update 1

Event

The Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) and the People's National Congress (PNC) have organized a protest in the Alimas Carnival area in Malé beginning at 20:30 (local time) on Wednesday, February 20. The demonstration has reportedly been called to denounce the imprisonment of former President Abdulla Yameen. A heightened security presence and localized traffic disruptions are likely around the protest site. Similar protests cannot be ruled out over the near term.

Context

Yameen was reportedly arrested and sent to Maafushi Prison on February 18 as his trial over corruption, theft, and money laundering charges continues. He was charged with such crimes on February 6, months after he was defeated by now-President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih in the September 23 presidential election. Yameen's arrest and detention comes amid a move by the current government to prosecute alleged acts of corruption by members of the his former government.

Also, on February 18, former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom - Yameen's half-brother - was arrested in Malé on money laundering and embezzlement charges.

Advice

Individuals in the Maldives are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.