The Parliament of the Maldives has approved a major amendment to the Drugs Act, introducing the capital punishment for individuals convicted of smuggling large quantities of narcotics into the country.

Under the newly amended law, capital punishment may only be enforced if the Supreme Court delivers a unanimous verdict upholding the death sentence. If unanimity is not reached, the offender will instead receive life imprisonment along with a fine ranging from MVR 100,000 to MVR 10 million. The amendment further specifies that sentences under these provisions cannot be pardoned, commuted, reduced, or suspended, and that no plea agreements may be entered into for such cases.

The law outlines strict thresholds for trafficking offences that qualify for capital punishment. These include smuggling over 350 grams of cannabis, over 250 grams of diamorphine, or over 100 grams of any drugs in section 1 into the Maldives. All such convictions must undergo full judicial review by higher courts.

The parliamentary decision follows earlier direction from President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, who on 31 July 2025 announced via X that he had instructed relevant authorities to revise the draft Drugs Act to include the death penalty for major trafficking offences. In his post, the President said the Government intends to adopt tougher measures in line with policies implemented in other countries, emphasising the Administration’s commitment to building a drug-free generation and reducing the social harm caused by narcotics.

Further support for the amendment was expressed this week by former Prosecutor General and current Deputy High Commissioner to Singapore, Muhuthaz Muhusin. In a statement on X, he noted that the revised bill establishes that sentences of life imprisonment or capital punishment under the Drugs Act cannot be pardoned or commuted. He also commended President Dr Muizzu, describing the move as a decisive step taken in the interest of the public.