Members of Parliament have expressed support for a proposed amendment to classify acts of vandalism against mosques as terrorism.

The bill seeking to amend the Prevention of Terrorism Act to categorise damage to mosques as an act of terrorism was presented by Galolhu North MP Mohamed Ibrahim. 

Presenting the bill, MP Mohamed Ibrahim said that while Islam is constitutionally recognised as the religion of the Maldivian State, incidents of damage to mosques have been increasing. He said the amendment was proposed to prevent such acts and to safeguard the sanctity of mosques. He added that the bill would help ensure mosques receive the respect, protection and security they deserve.

During the debate, People’s National Congress (PNC) Parliamentary Group Leader and Inguraidhoo MP Ibrahim Falah said President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has prioritised safeguarding Islamic unity in the Maldives, and that members of PNC would fully support the bill. He said the PNC parliamentary group would back efforts to expedite committee review and secure swift passage of the amendment.

The proposed amendment has received backing from all members who participated in the debate, with calls for the committee stage to be completed quickly so the bill can be passed without delay.

At present, the Prevention of Terrorism Act lists seven acts as terrorism offences. These include causing serious bodily harm, endangering life, kidnapping or taking hostages by force, causing major damage to property, hijacking passenger or cargo vessels, creating situations that pose significant risks to public health or safety, and causing extensive damage to critical infrastructure or disrupting essential services.

Under the current law, a person convicted of committing a terrorism offence faces a prison sentence ranging from 20 to 25 years. Those who assist in committing such an offence face between 17 and 20 years in prison.