The acting president of the Maldivian Democratic Party has been charged with high treason. Ironically, Ibrahim Hussain Zaki has been the face of the Maldives for many members of the South Asian political elite, who have worked with him in many contexts, having represented Maldives in various capacities and served as the Secretary-General of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC).
There is no further news of those detained in anticipation of the November 10, 2006 rally. Some of the passengers on the boat were teenagers and more than a week later it is not clear how they are faring. Further, the island prison (Dhoonidhoo) that is being used does not have a reputation for humane treatment of prisoners. Solitary confinement and torture have both been reported in the past. With access to lawyers, medicines and visitors not being reported, it is hoped that the international spotlight on Maldivian political affairs is serving as a protection to political prisoners in this time of crisis.
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