Commission pledges quick, independent probe into woman's fall

The Presidential Commission established by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu to investigate the case of Hawwa Yumnu Rasheed, who was found on the rooftop of H. Mitazge on the 18th of this month, has stated that its work will be carried out independently and that justice will be sought without delay.

At the commission’s first press conference, held on Wednesday, Chairperson Dr Mohamed Munawwar stated that he would not allow any external influence over the commission’s work.

Munawwar drew comparisons to previous presidential commissions formed in the Maldives, saying their outcomes had not always reached the public effectively.

“I am confident that we will be able to carry out our mandate independently and ensure that the relevant state institutions deal with this matter fairly, as the public expects,” he said.

Munawwar further stated that he would step down from his post if he felt pressured or unable to operate freely.

“If I cannot carry this out independently, if there is any pressure to influence me to decide something, I will resign immediately,” he said. “I will not whitewash anything.”

The commission also announced the development of an online portal to increase transparency and facilitate public engagement.

According to Munawwar, the portal will:

Munawwar said the commission's objective is to ensure those responsible are prosecuted and held accountable in accordance with the law.

“There should be no unnecessary delays. I intend to complete the work of the commission as soon as possible,” he said.

The Presidential Commission was officially established on 27 April to investigate the incident involving Yumnu. The members of the commission are: