Muizzu Denounces Pardoning of Child Sexual Offenders

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has condemned any acts of pardoning or leniency towards individuals arrested or convicted for sexual offenses against children, deeming such actions as completely unacceptable.

In a statement posted on X this morning, President Muizzu reiterated the government’s stance on the matter, emphasising the imperative need to appeal decisions that might result in the release of offenders. He asserted, “The government has been instructing the Prosecutor General’s Office (PG) to appeal such decisions as soon as possible.” Additionally, he called for collective efforts to safeguard the Maldivian community from the pernicious influence of such individuals.

The President’s remarks follow closely after the Prosecutor General’s Office (PGO) announced its controversial decision to enter into an agreement with a person arrested for the possession of child pornography. According to the PGO, the agreement, signed on November 15, 2023, spared the 32-year-old suspect from a potential custodial sentence.

Explaining the rationale behind the decision, a spokesperson from the PGO clarified that current legislation lacks a specific charge for possession of child pornography, resulting in the application of a standard charge for porn possession, which carries a prison term of one month and 24 days. The spokesperson further noted that the decision to opt for a one-year reprimand agreement was influenced by the suspect’s admission of guilt and display of remorse.

Recent developments have shed light on ongoing investigations by law enforcement agencies, initiated based on information provided by foreign counterparts monitoring social media platforms for child pornography activities involving individuals within the Maldives. 

These investigations, as revealed in a press briefing on March 17 by the police, include cases concerning the downloading of pornographic material, including images and videos, featuring children as young as two years old.

The government’s firm stance against acts of leniency towards offenders of crimes against children underscores the gravity of the issue and the imperative need for stringent legal measures to protect the vulnerable members of society.