An independent internet journalist’s death is bringing international focus on the island nation in Southwest Asia. Maldavian authorities investigate the brutal killing of an online activist today and try to bring those responsible to justice.
Yameen Rasheed, a 29-year-old blogger and social media personality, was found stabbed to death inside his apartment building in the capital Malé this morning. No one has claimed responsibility for the killing. Yameen Rasheed had received multiple death threats prior to his murder, which he had reported to the police.
This shocking killing of Yameen Rasheed not only shows contempt for human life, but it is also a direct attack on the human right to freedom of expression. Authorities in Maldives cannot let this crime go unpunished – they must immediately investigate the killing and hold those responsible to account,” said Olof Blomqvist, Amnesty International’s Maldives Researcher.
“This attack must also be a wake-up call to authorities to take threats against activists seriously. The government should investigate the police’s failure to protect Yameen Rasheed’s life, and urgently implement lessons to ensure that such attacks are not repeated. Police must ensure that all threats are investigated and that those who need it receive protection.’’
“The killing of Yameen Rasheed has taken place against a backdrop of growing restrictions on public debate in Maldives, with authorities harassing peaceful journalists, activists and media outlets. This crackdown has intensified in recent weeks and must end immediately. Authorities should protect those who speak out, not try to criminalise them.”
The bloggers murder has recieved international condemnation.In a similar situation, US authorities granted asylumn to Amos Yee. The United States granted asylum to teen blogger Amos Yee, who has been jailed twice in his native Singapore for critical views on religion and politics.
“Upon arrival, he expressed a fear of returning to Singapore … Six weeks later, Yee requested asylum at his first appearance before an immigration judge.
The US Immigration Judge Samuel Cole described Yee as a “young political dissident” and approved his asylum.
“His prosecution, detention and general maltreatment at the hands of Singapore authorities constitute persecution on account of Yee’s political opinions,” the ruling said.