Torture can only be eliminated when we talk about the torture – Tourism Minister

Sunday, March 21st, 2010

Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Dr. Ahmed Ali Sawad has said that the longstanding tradition of torture in the Maldives can only be eliminated when we have the courage to speak about the tortures we have undergone.

Speaking at the launching of the “Torture Victims Association” held last night, Dr. Ahmed Ali Sawad also said that hiding those stories, is in a way participating in the torture.

Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr. Abdul Majeed Bari, also said that victims should have the courage to speak about torture, as it is the only way they can attain justice. He also said that standing up to one’s moral values should not be followed by torture, as it is a must in Islam.

Speaking at the meeting, MP for Hulhu Henveiru, Moosa Maniku said that the Association provides a platform to bring torturers to justice, so that they would get an opportunity to come clean.

Moosa also said that there are historical records of torture by people such as Hitler and Polpot, but in the Maldives there is no such precise record, but is mainly circulated as word of mouth.

President Nasheed also attended the meeting.

The meeting also featured statements by international human rights NGOs, to assist the Association.

The meeting also featured a statement by Ahmed Saleem, President of the Human Rights Council of the Maldives. Saleem said that HRCM is of the view that torture cases should be investigated and that it will render all its support to NGOs which refrain from politicizing such issues.

The meeting also features some experiences of torture, by victims themselves.

Reader Comments

  1. This is good work from the people who profess democracy. We have to address it, and we have to resolve it. For the moment, what we see is the culture of thuggery and criminals taking over charge of the society. What I believe is we need an urgent voice against crimes. Witnesses are harassed and prevented from giving evidence. Robberies in daylight are increasing. Rape, murder, looting and even extortion is common place nowadays. We need some good Samaritans to address this gave issue which will be the curse for our next generation.

    Posted by saywhynot | March 21, 2010, 2:15 pm

Post a comment

 characters available



The opinions expressed here are those of the individual authors and commenters and do not necessarily represent the views of Miadhu News Daily. We do not take responsibility for the opinions, facts, or claims presented by individual authors or commenters, and reserve the right to moderate or delete inappropriate comments.

Miadhu Opinion Poll
  • Sorry, there are no polls available at the moment.