The government has submitted a bill to Parliament that would classify treason as a first-degree felony punishable by life imprisonment.
The proposed amendment defines the offence as waging war against the state or taking actions that threaten national sovereignty. Individuals convicted would also be barred from holding any state office.
The move aligns with a campaign pledge by President Mohamed Muizzu to impose harsher penalties for acts seen as betraying the nation. The bill was introduced by ruling People’s National Congress MP Abdulla Rifau on behalf of the government.
Under the current Penal Code, first-degree felonies carry baseline sentences of 10 to 25 years. The new provision would raise the maximum for treason to life imprisonment. Related proposals include measures on genocide and restrictions on public incitement based on nationality, race or religion.
Critics have raised concerns that some clauses could be used to limit political speech, particularly in relation to ongoing debates over foreign investment projects. The government has stated that the amendments are intended to bring Maldivian law into line with international conventions to which the country is a signatory.
The bill remains under consideration in Parliament.
