President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom has announced plans to grant a presidential pardon for youth offenders, excluding those convicted of the biggest criminal offences. The President made this announcement while speaking to the people of Fuvahmulah last evening, as part of his visit to the island.
The President said that the pardon would be implemented on the 1 April 2014. He also expressed his hopes for successful rehabilitation of youth offenders and their reintegration into society, noting that it was the Government’s aim to provide them a second chance to serve the community.
President Yameen expressed hopes that 94000 jobs would be created for the youth, as stated in his electoral pledge. Speaking in this regard, the President said that discussions were underway with foreign investors, regarding the facility of more job opportunities for Maldivian youth. He said that hopefully within the next couple of years, Maldives would see an increase in number of Maldivian workers, especially in the tourism sector, in the place of expatriate workers.
In his speech, the President also highlighted the current projects underway for the development of Fuvahmulah. He reiterated the Government’s commitment to ensure the realization of the people’s aspirations.