MDP Primary Contender and Ex-Foreign Minister Shahid Arrested Over Alleged Child Sexual Abuse

Former Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid, a leading contender for the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) presidential primary, was taken into police custody last night on allegations of sexually abusing a minor, the Maldives Police Service confirmed.

Shahid, 64, was arrested under a judicial warrant at approximately 9:59 PM from his residence at the Rainbow Ocean Front apartment complex in Hulhumalé.

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Police searched the premises before escorting the veteran diplomat to the Hulhumalé Police Station. He was subsequently transferred to the Dhoonidhoo Custodial Centre, where he remains held pending a court appearance for a formal remand hearing.

Law enforcement authorities confirmed the allegations involve a victim under the age of 18, but declined to release further case details, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation.

The arrest comes at a sensitive political juncture, as Shahid actively prepares to contest the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) primary ahead of the 2028 presidential race. 

Shahid, who served as President of the 76th Session of the United Nations General Assembly and holds the nation’s highest civilian honor, the Order of the Distinguished Rule of Izzuddin is among the most prominent figures in the country’s main opposition party.

Shortly before his apprehension, as rumors of an impending warrant spread online, Shahid issued a statement on X unequivocally denying the accusations.

“The rumors being circulated as part of a political character assassination are completely baseless lies,” Shahid wrote, urging both the public and media outlets to refrain from publishing unsubstantiated reports.

Shahid’s son, Yameen Shahid, issued a public statement on X last night defending his father’s integrity and questioning the circumstances of the arrest.

“I know my father’s character, his values and the kind of man he is. I know he would never do what he’s being accused of, and I stand by him completely,” Yameen wrote. “He has already condemned these allegations as a politically motivated attempt to destroy his reputation. Seeing him arrested today has been heartbreaking, and the way this has unfolded raises serious questions.”

“He deserves fairness, due process and every opportunity to defend himself. Our family stands firmly by him. We will not waver,” he added.