Former Vice President Ahmed Adeeb’s lawyers have called on authorities to grant him medical leave abroad following opposition leader Qasim Ibrahim’s departure to Singapore.

Qasim was granted medical leave abroad last week by the Maldives Correctional Services, a right that was mandated by the Criminal Court verdict against him and heavily pursued by his legal representatives. The service has given Qasim an additional 10 days. 

Adeeb’s lawyers said in a statement on Saturday that the state’s refusal to allow the former vice president access to adequate medical treatment is an infringement of his constitutional rights and the doctrine of equality.

Moosa Siraaj, a member of Adeeb’s legal team, said that all those that are eligible for medical leave – having a doctor issue statements in this regard and have an ailment that cannot be treated in the Maldives – must be allowed to seek treatment.

He said that the government has essentially ‘placed a price’ on Adeeb’s life. Siraaj is referring to Attorney General Mohamed Anil’s statements that the state refused to grant Adeeb medical leave abroad because of a flight risk and due to him being ‘indebted’ to the government.

Adeeb’s doctors have verified his claims of developing an internal cyst, kidney stones, and vision impairment from glaucoma during the ongoing incarceration for his 33-year jail term.

His family has accused the state of negligence in failing to provide the former vice president with adequate medical care during his isolated incarceration in Dhoonidhoo Island while the police investigated him.

President Abdulla Yameen and his administration has made a number of accusations against Adeeb, notably over an ongoing embezzlement scandal involving the state operated Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation.