Yameen Accuses PPM-PNC of Arrest Attempt on Wife and Son

Former Maldivian President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom has made startling allegations against the leadership of the ruling Progressive Party of Maldives – People’s National Congress (PPM-PNC) coalition, claiming they intended to have his wife, Fathimath Ibrahim (Fathun), and son, Zain Abdulla Yameen, arrested.

Speaking at a rally held at the People’s National Front (PNF) headquarters in Male’ City on Sunday night, Yameen accused the ruling coalition of attempting to involve his family members in protests in order to have them arrested.

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The former PPM-PNC leader’s remarks came in response to comments made by Abdul Raheem Abdulla, the PNC’s chairperson, during a recent campaign event. Abdulla had cast doubt on the loyalty of Yameen’s family, highlighting their lack of involvement in protests calling for Yameen’s release in contrast to the efforts made by the PNC leadership.

Yameen, addressing the rally, asserted that his family is being targeted due to his role as a political leader not merely as someone’s spouse.

Furthermore, Yameen alleged that the PPM-PNC leadership selectively designated protestors for arrest during demonstrations, claiming to possess knowledge of individuals within the leadership who instructed the police on whom to detain.

“There are two people from my family who represent and speak for me when I am in prison, whether it’s to my friends, well-wishers, or foreign governments; that is my eldest, Zain, and my wife, Fathimath. If they had taken to the streets, then instructions would have come directly from the (PPM-PNC leadership) to have them arrested,” he asserted.

Yameen also raised suspicions regarding the professional advancements of Abdul Raheem’s family members, insinuating a potential quid pro quo arrangement tied to participation in street protests.

Yameen, sentenced to 11 years in prison on December 25, 2022, for charges related to bribery and money laundering, was transferred to house arrest on October 1, 2023, following President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s victory in the presidential election. However, shortly after Muizzu assumed office, Yameen severed ties with the PPM-PNC coalition and initiated efforts to establish the PNF.

Despite legal restrictions barring his involvement in active politics, Yameen remains a prominent figure within the PNF, actively participating in party activities and publicly criticizing President Muizzu’s administration.

Yameen has lodged an appeal against his conviction with the High Court, with the appellant court yet to deliver a verdict despite concluding hearings months ago.