Maldives: Opposition-appointed prosecutor general 'stabbed', say reports
What's the story
Hussain Shameem, the prosecutor general of the Maldives, has been stabbed in broad daylight by unidentified miscreants in Male City, according to local media reports. Shameem was appointed by the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), which was in power until November last year and is presently the opposition party. He is currently being treated for his injuries at the ADK Hospital, reports said.
Weapon
Not attacked with a sharp-edged weapon: Police
"Preliminary findings establish that he was not attacked with a sharp-edged weapon," a police spokesperson said. However, he suffered an injury to his wrist while trying to evade the attack. The attack on Shameem came as several Maldivian parliamentarians have been targeted by gangs on the road in recent days. The island nation is purportedly experiencing an increase in lawlessness and extremism.
Leverage
Attack likely to impact impeachment motion against president
The attack will now likely be used as leverage by the opposition to attack President Mohamed Muizzu, who is already facing impeachment. The MDP has gathered enough signatures to submit a motion to impeach Muizzu, local media said. The decision to impeach the president came after members of the Majlis (the Maldivian parliament) clashed over the approval of four members of Muizzu's cabinet.
Apology
Maldives opposition asks Muizzu to apologize to India
At the same time, the opposition has demanded that Muizzu issue a formal apology to India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his remarks against the country. On January 13, Muizzu stated that the Maldives is not in any country's backyard, and it won't allow other countries to "bully." The remarks came as three ministers were suspended for making disparaging comments against PM Modi.
Diplomatic row
India-Maldives relations
The ministers had called PM Modi a "clown" and "puppet of Israel" after he posted pictures from his visit to the Lakshadweep Islands. Male's relationship with New Delhi has deteriorated since Muizzu took office. Notably, Muizzu won the 2023 elections on the back of an anti-India stance, a shift away from his predecessors' pro-India approach.