Former President Dr. Mohamed Waheed has stepped down from his role as Special Adviser to President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu after reports emerged about his connection with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
The resignation comes following the release of emails linked to Epstein by the U.S. Department of Justice. The emails show that Waheed had multiple communications with Epstein and may have met him in person several times.
Epstein, who was accused of sexually abusing minors and blackmailing powerful people, died in prison in 2019 while awaiting trial.
The emails suggest that Waheed asked Epstein for advice on political matters in the Maldives, including during the February 7 political crisis and around the 2013 presidential election. The documents also mention discussions about the possible sale of an island to Epstein for a resort, though there is no evidence that a deal ever happened.
As public concern grew, Waheed resigned to avoid further controversy. In a statement, he said he was never involved in any illegal activity, never met Epstein in an official role, and regretted any personal connection with him.
