Muizzu Vows Executive Will Enforce Death Penalty, Defends Judicial Independence Ahead of Hanging Bill

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu declared that his administration will carry out capital punishment if required by law, rejecting concerns over judicial integrity and asserting that previous governments used judicial independence as a “convenient excuse” to delay executions.

Speaking at a press conference regarding the government-sponsored bill newly tabled at the People’s Majlis, President Muizzu was questioned by a journalist on whether enforcing the death penalty is appropriate under the current state of the judiciary.

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Muizzu defended the courts, insisting that no administration had done more to reform and insulate the judicial system from political interference.

“My actions will align with my words on this matter,” Muizzu said, noting that on his first day addressing the nation, he had proclaimed the judiciary free from executive influence.

The President maintained that his administration does not interfere with the courts and has taken concrete steps to reinforce judicial autonomy, including separating the judicial budget, expanding funding allocations, and granting the judiciary full authority over its operational spending.

Muizzu criticised previous administrations for repeatedly stalling capital enforcement. He argued that past leaders relied on claims of judicial flaws to avoid acting, stating: “The easiest excuse used by previous governments was that the judicial system was not independent. Saying that, every government kept postponing this matter.”

He pledged that his administration would not hesitate to fulfill its constitutional and statutory roles once cases conclude.

“In a 100% Islamic country, if it reaches the point where a death sentence must be executed, the government will fulfill whatever executive responsibilities are required,” he said.

Muizzu’s remarks follow the government’s formal submission of legislation establishing procedural mechanisms for capital punishment. Sponsored on behalf of the administration by Guraidhoo MP Hanan Mohamed Rasheed, the bill designates hanging as the official method of execution and places operational responsibility under the Maldives Correctional Service.

The proposed legislation mandates that executions be conducted away from public view and overseen by a seven-member panel. Once constituted, the panel will have up to 30 days to set the execution’s date and time.