MP Seeks Government Answers on Failure to Implement Juvenile Justice Act Fully
Juvenile Court of the Maldives.
Galolhu Uthuru MP Mohamed Ibrahim (Kudu) has called for relevant authorities to be questioned and consulted over the incomplete implementation of the Juvenile Justice Act, including delays in establishing required detention and rehabilitation facilities for children.
In a letter submitted to Parliament, Kudu highlighted several areas where, he said, implementation of the law has not proceeded fully.
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The MP questioned why the juvenile detention centre and rehabilitation centres required under the Act have not yet been established to the required standards, and asked when the juvenile detention centre will be completed.
He also sought an update on diversion programmes, which are intended to help children who come into conflict with the law reintegrate into society, and questioned what steps are being taken to address the shortage of staff specialising in child affairs.
He further questioned the prolonged detention of children due to the lack of facilities providing the reformative treatment required under the juvenile justice system.
MP Kudu also asked how authorities are addressing challenges arising from the age of criminal responsibility being set at 15, particularly in cases involving children below that age.
Other issues raised include weak coordination between institutions involved in the juvenile justice system, which can lead to delays in information sharing and coordination of work.
He further questioned whether sufficient action is being taken against individuals who exploit children and whether enforcement measures have been strengthened.
He asked whether the Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) has adequate funding, staffing and other resources to implement the Juvenile Justice Act, and sought information on the monitoring role of the Children’s Ombudsperson’s Office and the Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM).
The MP also asked whether any other laws are creating challenges in enforcing the Child Rights Protection Act.
