Former Foreign Minister and former Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) President Abdulla Shahid has filed an appeal with the High Court challenging a court order that placed him in detention in connection with an allegation of sexual abuse involving a minor.
According to the High Court’s registry, the appeal was submitted on Wednesday, November 4. However, it remains unclear whether the court has formally accepted the case for consideration.
Shahid was arrested under a court order on Monday night following allegations involving the sexual abuse of a child under the age of 18.
In a statement issued that evening, Maldives Police Service confirmed that Shahid had been taken into custody in connection with the allegation.
Following his arrest, Shahid was transferred to Dhoonidhoo Prison. He was subsequently remanded in custody for 30 days under a court order while the matter remains under investigation.
Shortly before his arrest, Shahid addressed the allegations in a post published on the social media platform X, rejecting the claims and describing them as politically motivated attempts to damage his reputation.
He maintained that the allegations were entirely false and urged the public to refrain from circulating unverified information.
Shahid is a longstanding political figure in the Maldives, having served in several senior positions throughout a career spanning more than four decades. His public service includes roles in foreign affairs, parliamentary leadership and international diplomacy.
He previously served as Minister of Foreign Affairs and President of the United Nations General Assembly, gaining international recognition through his diplomatic responsibilities.
His arrest comes as he is campaigning for the MDP’s presidential nomination, adding a significant development to the party’s ongoing internal political contest.
The High Court appeal challenges the decision to keep Shahid in custody, although the court has yet to confirm whether the application will proceed to a hearing.
The allegations remain under investigation, and no finding of guilt has been established. Shahid has publicly denied the accusations.
