It was marital rape and abuse that took Ziyadha Naeem’s life. Disgustingly, her husband, the perpetrator was acquitted by the criminal court of Maldives.

This verdict was appealed in High Court by the prosecutor general, with the full backing of the parliament’s Human Rights and Gender Committee as well.

It is with great joy that I welcome the verdict of the Maldives High Court today, sentencing the man, as guilty on the charge of marital rape, amongst other charges. This is a historical moment for the Maldives, as it is the first time that marital rape has been recognized in a court in Maldives. Even though it came at the expense of an innocent woman’s life, the fact that she got justice today can be regarded as a major step forward in our effort to stop domestic violence and violence against women as well as protecting women’s rights. Though nothing will make up for the loss of Ziyadha’s life, I am sure today’s verdict will make a difference to many women who might find themselves in similar abusive situations.

This achievement is not an easy feat for the Maldives since it is a 100% Muslim country, practicing Islamic shariah and common law. Thus, there is a part of the population who deny the very concept of marital rape. This is one of the reasons why I consider today’s victory in court, a milestone for the women of Maldives.

It is an important coincidence that this verdict came on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the Fourth World Conference of Women, which led to the Beijing Declaration and Platform of Action. It certainly is a victory for women!