MALE, Maldives: Maldives, top criminal prosecutor, Hussain Shameem, was attacked with a hammer in the capital, Male. The assailant targeted Shameem while he was en route to work, injuring his left arm. Although in stable condition, Shameem was hospitalized following the assault.
Authorities suspect a potential connection between the attack and criminal prosecutions handled by Shameem. The seasoned lawyer had assumed the role of Prosecutor General in December 2019, overseeing significant legal matters in the archipelago.
The assault occurred just three days after a tumultuous parliamentary session, marked by the rejection of key cabinet appointments, including that of the attorney general. While police have not immediately linked the two incidents, tensions in the political landscape are palpable.
The parliamentary upheaval saw ruling party legislators attempting to obstruct a vote on the newly appointed cabinet by President Mohamed Muizzu. Chaos ensued, captured in videos circulating on social media, depicting violent altercations within the parliamentary chambers. Opposition members, holding the majority, faced disruptions from rival lawmakers, resulting in the temporary suspension of proceedings.
As the Maldives grapples with both a physical attack on a high-profile official and political turbulence, concerns about the broader implications for stability and governance come to the forefront.
