Maldives Parliament has resumed the review process for a landmark bill aimed at establishing a legal framework for organ transplants after it was returned by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu for further consideration.

The Organ Transplant Bill, which was initially passed by Parliament on 14 May, was sent back for review after the President raised concerns over the removal of certain provisions from the original draft prepared by the Attorney General’s Office.

President Dr Muizzu had expressed concern over the absence of clauses that would prevent individuals in state custody, those serving prison sentences, or people detained on criminal allegations from donating organs.

He noted that such individuals may face difficulties in providing fully voluntary consent without pressure or influence.

During Wednesday’s parliamentary sitting, a motion was submitted to readmit the bill and forward it to the Social Affairs Committee for further review.

The proposal was approved unanimously by 62 members.

The bill seeks to legalize living-donor organ transplants in the Maldives and introduce regulations governing the process.

It outlines requirements for donors, including being at least 18 years old, mentally capable, and willing to donate without any form of coercion.

The proposed legislation also introduces penalties for illegal organ-related activities, including removing organs without consent, conducting transplants using illegally obtained organs, buying or selling human organs, and providing transplant services without proper licensing.

The bill will now undergo further review by the Social Affairs Committee before returning to Parliament for the next stage of consideration.