MP Calls for Introduction of Post-Mortem Services in Maldives

Mohamed Ibrahim, Member of Parliament, has urged Health Minister Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim to begin arrangements for conducting post-mortem examinations within the Maldives, asserting that no legal barriers prevent such procedures.

In a letter sent to the Health Minister, Ibrahim stressed the need to address unexplained and suspicious deaths, which are currently investigated by sending bodies abroad for post-mortem examinations. He highlighted the urgency of the matter, noting that seven unexplained deaths have been recorded in the past two months.

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Ibrahim raised concerns about public unease surrounding these incidents and underscored the importance of transparency in handling such cases. He argued that introducing post-mortem services domestically would help clarify the causes of death and could reduce state expenditure associated with outsourcing these procedures.

The letter referenced the Criminal Procedure Act, which outlines the framework for conducting post-mortems. Ibrahim suggested that the police should be granted authority to initiate post-mortem examinations, particularly in cases of unidentified causes of death or suspected criminal activity.

Additionally, Ibrahim cited the “National Standard for Forensic Medical Service in Maldives” and the Health Services Act, which permits the Health Minister to appoint centres or agencies to carry out forensic procedures, including post-mortems.

Concluding his appeal, Ibrahim stated that the existing legal framework supports the establishment of post-mortem services in the Maldives and called for immediate action to implement this service.