The Prosecutor General’s Office has pressed seven charges against former Tourism Minister Ali Waheed, who was dismissed as the minister after several employees come forward with sexual harassment allegations.

Ali Waheed was dismissed from the position on July 9th, after allegations that he sexually assaulted and harassed multiple female employees at the Tourism Ministry was brought to the attention of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and Gender Minister Aishath Mohamed Didi.

The Prosecutor General’s Office noted that they have filed seven charges against Ali Waheed with the Criminal Court on Thursday.

The Charges are;

- Inflicting a sexual injury under Article 16 of Sexual Offenses Act

- Attempted rape under Article 15 of Sexual Offenses Act

- Indecent exposure under Section 132 of the Penal Code

- Sexual assault under Article 18 of Sexual Offenses Act

- Attempt to cause sexual assault under Article 19 of Sexual Offenses Act

- Two counts of unlawful sexual contact under Section 412 and Section 81 of the Penal Code

While Ali Waheed's phone and laptop were confiscated for evidence collection, his passport was withheld to restrict him from traveling. Witness statements were collected from 15 people, with Ali Waheed giving his statement to police on July 19.

After his statement to the police, Ali Waheed stated to the press that he refutes the allegations against him.