Minister of Defence Mariya Ahmed Didi has stated that the government has implemented a fair and ordered military justice system. She made the remark at the ceremony held to mark the three-year anniversary of the Adjutant General’s (AG) Corps.
At the ceremony, Minister Mariya said that the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) has been restructured in a way that all those involved in a case now have the opportunity to receive legal aid from the moment they register a case for investigation. She said that the new changes ensure that the accused will be informed of the charges against them and that the new system allows for a fair opportunity to respond in their defense. She added that the new military justice system provides a two-stage appeal process for individuals who are dissatisfied with the case outcome.
Additionally, Minister Mariya emphasised that the new system focuses on providing guidance rather than solely penalising officers, taking into account their criminal record and the nature of the offense they are accused of. She highlighted that 55 cases have so been filed after advising the accused, without it being placed on their record. She said that this approach demonstrates a commitment to promote reform, strengthen military discipline, and maintain the integrity of the MNDF, rather than simply adding to the criminal records of officers.