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Report condemns Maldives’ “dark side”
The paradise destination of the Maldives has once again been condemned for its human rights record, which has been described as “deplorable”.
According to The Daily Telegraph, a new report, entitled Maldives, the Dark Side of Life, states that “arbitrary arrest, detention and torture” are commonplace in the nation.
The report says that the islands, which stretch across the Indian Ocean, have been ruled since 1978 by President Abdul Gayoom, whose family also controls the three main newspapers and state television and radio.
But while the authorities have been quick to promote the islands as a tourist destination under the slogan “Maldives: The Sunny Side of Life”, the Telegraph reports, life for many locals is less than bright.
The population, largely Sunni Muslim, is reportedly rarely allowed to mix with tourists, unless they are employed at one of the many international hotels.
Report by Tim Gillett, News From Abroad
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