:: Dhivehi Observer :: Peoples Press ::

Concern over the health of Hon. Ibrahim Ismail MP

Hon. Ibrahim Ismail, Special Majlis Member for Male' demands respect for the fundamental rights in the constitution of Maldives

'Ibra' on Black Friday. He was there to bring order to the crowd not to promote violence, violence, violence

Mariyam Mohamed, Male' - 30 Sept. 3004

Hon. Ibrahim Ismail, Member of the Special Majlis for Male' is reportedly suffering from neurological and psychological complication. Ibra, as friends call him, is disabled and requires at least one hour of exercise to improve blood circulation in his body. He did tell the authorities about this situation but he has not been allowed to exercise regularly. In fact, so far he has only been given permission only once in over 40 days. He has fainted many times because of lack of exercise.

Ibra's wife met him yesterday. Ibra is very unwell and looked very stressful. Understandably, he has been in solitary confinement and this is affecting him psychologically. Because of his neurological problems, he consults with a psychiatrist on a regular basis. It is reported that he has not been given permission to see the doctor despite requests.

Relative, friends and his constituents are extremely concerned for his health. Surely, Gayyoom's hard-line police can conduct their investigations even if they keep detainees at home in Male'. The purpose of locking the reformists unlawfully is to create fear amongst people and an attempt by Gayyoom to teach a lesson to those who oppose his tyrannical regime.

Honourable Ibrahim Ismail and other detainees of Black Friday who have been tortured and ill treated, sexually abused and even raped must be freed immediately and unconditionally. The patience of the Maldivian people, especially relatives and friends of these detainees are being tested. Some have vowed to resist this regime intensely whilst others are contemplating sabotage to show their outrage.

International community must urge this brutal Dictator Maumoon Abdul Gayyoom to show restraint and to learn how to rule the country in accordance with the constitution of the Maldives. Surely it is beyond the comprehension of a normal person to believe Gayyoom's version of Black Friday.