Fathimath Shamnaz Ali Saleem, the Minister of Environment, Climate Change and Energy, has been arrested and remanded in custody for allegedly using witchcraft on President Mohamed Muizzu. Her ex-husband Adam Rameez, a Minister at the President’s office and a close aide to Mohamed Muizzu, has also been suspended.
According to the reports, police arrested Shamnaz and two other suspects, her younger sibling and a sorcerer on Sunday in the capital city of Male. Following her arrest, She was also suspended from her post in the Ministry of Environment.
Minister of Environment, Climate Change and Energy Arrested
“Shamnaz, alongside two other individuals, was arrested on Sunday. All three of them have been remanded in custody for seven days. She was suspended from her post on Wednesday as per the Environment Ministry,” a news portal based in Maldives Sun.mv reported.
Alleged ‘Black Magic’ on Mohamed Muizzu
Traditionally, Black Magic refers to the practice of using occult and dark rituals to influence people and outcomes for evil purpose and personal gains. While, it is not a criminal offense in the Maldives, it can lead to a six-month prison sentence under Islamic law as it is considered to be a serious violation.
Shamnaz was initially appointed as a state minister at Muliaage, the president’s official house and then she got transferred to the Environment Ministry in Muizzu’s government. Before, Shamnaz and her ex-husband Rameez has worked with Muizzu as members of the Male City Council when he was serving as the city’s mayor.
According to the reports, Shamnaz did it for personal and political gains. Assistant Commissioner of Police Ahmed Shifan, said that the investigation is underway.
Background of Maldives President Mohammed Muizzu
Dr. Mohammad Muizzu has been serving as the 8th President of the Republic of Maldives since 17th November 2023, after defeating Ibrahim Solih in the last year elections. He is also the President of People’s National Congress.
During his presidential campaign in the 2023 elections, Mohamed Muizzu pledged to safeguard the freedom and security of Maldivians, promote justice and equality among all citizens, uphold the cherished values of Islam and patriotism, and usher in a transformative era of national development.
Before his Presidency, Dr. Muizzu served as Male’ Mayor from May 17, 2021, to November 17, 2023. He has been the first candidate to be elected through a direct vote of the residents. During his mayorship, he worked hard to transform the city into a greener, and more pleasant.
In addition to that, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu holds a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Civil Engineering from University of Leeds, United Kingdom.
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