President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has pledged decisive action to end prolonged pre-trial detention in the Maldives, a concern he describes as both urgent and unacceptable.

Speaking on the latest episode of the Rayyithunnaa Eku podcast, the President reaffirmed his Administration's commitment to tackling this issue through both immediate and long-term measures.

President Dr Muizzu stressed that the only lasting solution lies in expediting investigations. While investigations fall under the judiciary's remit, he emphasised that the Government is ready to enhance its support by improving infrastructure and providing necessary resources. He also pledged continued administrative assistance to help the judiciary resolve outstanding cases more swiftly.

The President pointed to ongoing developments, including the construction of a new court complex in Hulhumalé, designed to facilitate simultaneous trials. He revealed that more than 300 individuals are currently in prolonged pre-trial detention, some for over six years, a situation he called deeply troubling.

Reiterating his manifesto promise, President Dr Muizzu spoke of plans to establish a comprehensive prison system that upholds human dignity. A new detention facility is in the works, with feasibility studies now underway. While this is a long-term project, he confirmed that progress is being made.

In the short term, the Maldives Police Service, the Prosecutor General's Office, and the Attorney General's Office are reviewing around one-third of current pre-trial cases. This review includes options for monitored release, such as electronic tagging, especially in cases involving minor offences or insufficient evidence.

He also highlighted the need to reform the bail system, which he labelled expensive and inaccessible. The proposed reforms, he clarified, will only apply to non-major crimes, excluding serious offences like child sexual abuse.

The President's comments come in the wake of his meeting with advocates on May 7, who raised concerns over lengthy detentions without trial. The advocates proposed solutions such as supervised release and called for improved detention conditions. In response, the President reiterated his plans for a structured bail system and confirmed upcoming discussions with key legal bodies to fast-track reforms.

In a recent press conference, President Dr Muizzu also noted that relocating judicial offices will help ease overcrowding and improve workflow, as space limitations at institutions like the Prosecutor General's Office have contributed to delays.