President Mohamed Nasheed has today ratified the National Archives Bill, passed during the Parliament’s sitting on 21 December 2011, and the Drugs Bill passed during the Parliament’s sitting on 28 December 2011.
Following ratification, the two Acts have been published in the government Gazette today.
The National Archives Act comprises the official records of the State, of which, the National Archives Office determines, are archive worthy records.
As stated by the Act, it is the duty of any assigned person, to ensure the preservation of official documents, photographs, maps, and records of the State. The Act also states that no official documents, photographs, maps, or records of the State, shall be destroyed in a process other than that described in the Act.
The National Archives Act will be implemented starting today. Following the implementation of the Act, President Nasheed will establish an independent government bureau under the name “National Archives”.
The Drugs Bill ratified by the President, and published in the government gazette today, governs the prohibition of illegal drug use in the Maldives, and prevention of illicit drug peddling and trafficking.
The Act will also oversee the institution of a rehabilitation programme for those addicted to illicit drug use, try to eliminate their need for drugs, and provide them a chance to reintegrate into society as responsible citizens. Further, the Act will establish drug-related policies and determine punishment for crimes related to drugs.
The Drugs Act will be implemented starting today. It states that the “National Drug Control Council” should be established within a maximum of 30 days after the commencement of the Act.
The National Drug Control Council is a government body that will advise the President on the prevention of illegal drug use and drug trafficking in the Maldives, and administer the establishment of rehabilitation programmes in the country.