Draft Maldives Police Service Bill 2012

In December 2012, a new police bill was introduced in the Majlis (parliament) in order to replace the existing 2008 Police Act. The new bill seeks to bring about fundamental changes in the police structure, organization, appointment procedures and accountability mechanisms. It significantly expands police powers of arrest, search and seizure while at the same time, reduces oversight over its functioning. As on 30 June 2013, the bill is under review by a parliamentary committee.

CHRI is the only organization to have got the bill translated into English (available on NIPSA). It is in the process of completing a detailed critique of the new bill which will also be made available on our website. CHRI will be sharing its critique with all stakeholders including members of the parliamentary committee.