"A prison sentence against me is out of the question," Yameen

Former President Abdulla Yameen has said that receiving another prison sentence is simply not possible, asserting that within legal bounds, there is "absolutely no way to touch" him. 

Yameen made these remarks during the "Reset" gathering organized by his party, PNF, at Artificial Beach last night. His comments came in response to a question from a member of the public regarding how PNF would proceed in the 2028 presidential election if Yameen were unable to contest. 

Addressing the question, Yameen first noted that reasons for a leader being unable to contest usually include death, mental incapacity, or becoming legally disqualified. He then challenged the questioner to be direct if they were asking specifically about the possibility of a future prison sentence. 

Without waiting for a follow-up, he that that such a scenario would not occur under fair and just judicial proceedings. 

"God willing, there is no way a prison sentence will come for me," Yameen stated, adding that while the current government could attempt to imprison him if they wished, doing so would be "the biggest mistake they could make."

Reflecting on his previous incarceration, Yameen drew a comparison to the administration of former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. He remarked that despite Solih’s efforts to keep him imprisoned, which Yameen claimed were backed by foreign influence and funding, the former president failed to secure a second term. "Where did it get him? Allah’s destiny and decision are far more powerful," Yameen said. 

He remains firm in his belief that political maneuvers to sideline him through the judiciary will ultimately fail, just as he believes they did in the past.

Despite Yameen’s confident stance, he still faces significant legal challenges. 

Two major cases brought by the state in connection with the MMPRC corruption scandal remain unresolved. These cases involve allegations of bribery and money laundering related to the leasing of V. Aarah and R. Fuggiri. If these charges are proven in court, they could result in a lengthy prison sentence, which would once again impact his eligibility for future political office.