Maldives President Abdulla Yameen. File Pic

The Maldives top court has suspended 12 pro-opposition legislators before a crucial parliamentary vote on Sunday, emboldening President Abdulla Yameen as he clings to power in the troubled islands. The Supreme Court decision reverses its original order to reinstate the MPs, who had defected from the ruling party. It comes as parliament prepares to ratify a state of emergency declared by Yameen that plunged the Maldives into crisis.