Opposition stages protest at ACC, demands action on complaints

The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) staged a protest at the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) on Wednesday, alleging that the commission has failed to investigate cases linked to the upcoming by-elections and council elections scheduled for Saturday.

A group of MDP members entered the ACC premises from 11:00am and called for the resignation of ACC President Adam Shamil.

Ahmed Saleem, President of the MDP National Congress for Henveiru Hulhangu, said that 22 cases had been submitted in recent days alleging government corruption. He stated that none of the cases had been investigated.

He said that four of the cases are related to the elections and expressed concern that they remain unaddressed ahead of polling.

“That is why we are here, protesting and seeking a meeting with the commission’s leadership,” Saleem said.

He added that if investigations were ongoing, it would limit actions that he described as corruption.

The protest also referred to an announcement by President Mohamed Muizzu in February to waive outstanding fines and provide MVR 100,000 to residents of Sinamalé and Maléhiya flats. The opposition has claimed this may influence voters, while the President has defended the decision.

Saleem said the matter had been submitted to the Elections Commission, which advised that it be referred to the ACC.

He cited Article 170(a) of the Constitution, stating that the Elections Commission is responsible for ensuring elections are conducted without influence or corruption.

The opposition has also raised concerns over recent announcements on employment opportunities, salary changes in some sectors and a decision to waive rent for Hiyaa flats for a period of two years.

The MDP stated that these actions may affect the election outcome.

Attempts to obtain a response from the ACC regarding the concerns raised by the MDP were unsuccessful.