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Student essay results in gaol term Faiykolhu (pseudonym) Malé, July 2002 A schoolboy has been gaoled in Maldives after writing an essay about the arrest and imprisonment of his uncle, Ibrahim Luthfee, who is currently serving a life sentence for writing and publishing the Sandhaanu internet newsletter. Usaid Haneef, aged 17, is studying at Grade 10 level in Dharumavantha School, which has been established as part of Majeediyya School. He was summoned by the principal, Shareef, during a Dhivehi exam, because Usaid had written an essay claiming Luthfee's arrest, detention and sentencing were unfair, according to informed sources. Shareef sent Usaid directly to the National Security Service police without informing or contacting his parents. The NSS cautioned Usaid and asked him to return the following day with a letter of apology. Next day, 28 July 2002 at 1.20 p.m. accompanied by his father, Ali Haneef , Usaid Haneef arrived at NSS headquarters in Malé. Ali Haneef was asked to return with a change of clothes for his son. Usaid is now believed to be at the Maafushi island detention centre. There have been no formal charges, and no media coverage of these events within Maldives.
Final two verses from Majeediyya School's Old School Song: Yes, see the pure gold how it glints in the light Of heaven's fair beam unspotted and bright. Let thus be your lives boys, unstained by wrong; To follow your duty, be brave, bold and strong. Then raise up your banner, display its green folds Of God's own colour reflected it holds. Then upwards our hearts, like a dove to the sky, To seek 'midst the azure a goal set on high. |
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Maldives Culture is an independent internet magazine of Maldivian cultural issues.
Editors and translators: Michael O'Shea and Fareesha Abdulla, Australia
We invite contributions from Maldivians and others interested in Maldives.
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