Maldives Shock: Former Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid Arrested Over Child Abuse Claims
Former Maldives Foreign Minister and UNGA President Abdulla Shahid arrested on child sexual abuse suspicion. He denies the allegations.
In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves through the political landscape of the Maldives, former Foreign Affairs Minister Abdulla Shahid has been arrested by the police on suspicion of child sexual abuse. The arrest of the 64-year-old veteran politician marks a dramatic turn for one of the nation's most internationally recognized figures.
The Midnight Arrest
According to an official statement released by the Maldives Police on Monday, the operation took place on the night of November 2, 2026. Acting under a court warrant, officers apprehended Shahid at approximately 9:59 pm (local time) at H. Rabee’ee Manzil in Malé.
The police confirmed via a post on X (formerly Twitter) that the arrest was made based on suspicions that Shahid sexually abused a child under the age of 18. Authorities have stated that further investigations into the case are currently underway to uncover the full details of the allegations.
Shahid Hits Back: 'Character Assassination'
Abdulla Shahid has waste no time in vehemently denying the charges. Taking to social media, the former minister described the allegations as a calculated attempt to destroy his reputation.
"The stories being politically circulated to assassinate my character are completely baseless lies. I urge everyone to refrain from spreading such unsubstantiated claims," Shahid stated in his post on X.
A Titan of Maldivian Politics
The arrest is particularly significant given Shahid's immense stature both at home and abroad. His resume includes some of the highest offices in the country and the world:
- United Nations: He served as the President of the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) during 2021–22.
- Foreign Ministry: He held the post of Foreign Affairs Minister from 2018 to 2023 under the administration of former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.
- Legislative Leadership: He previously served as the Speaker of the People's Majlis.
- Party Leadership: He led the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) from February 2024 until August 2026.
Political Implications and Recent Activity
Beyond his official roles, Shahid was viewed as a powerhouse contender for the opposition MDP’s presidential nomination leading up to the 2028 elections. He had stepped down from the party leadership in August 2026 specifically to contest the party primary.
This legal turmoil comes shortly after Shahid's international engagements. Just last month, he was in New Delhi, India, for the Words Beyond Borders International Literature Festival 2026. During the event, he chaired a session titled "Spaces We Call Home: Diaspora & Belonging," continuing his role as a global intellectual and diplomatic voice.
As the Maldives Police continue their probe, the political future of the former UNGA President remains uncertain, while the nation awaits further evidence or legal proceedings regarding the grave accusations.