Nazim summoned to ACC in MMPRC graft probe
Nazim expressed concern that such issues would deprive the independent commissions of the opportunity to work independently.
By
Aminath Shifleen
The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has summoned MNP presidential candidate Mohammed Nazim for questioning in connection with the MMPRC corruption scandal.
Nazim was summoned to the ACC to clarify information on a case of alleged embezzlement of state funds through the MMPRC during 2014-2015.
He was produced before the ACC on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Nazim issued a press release on Wednesday saying:
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He was asked about an alleged incident that took place nine years ago
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This was done in the run-up to the elections to discredit him and to undermine his support and the peoples’ trust in him
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This is directly done by the government to influence this year's presidential election
“I have served the state in various levels for more than 30 years and up to this point I have never been involved in any incidence of corruption,” Nazim said.
"Therefore, the people will not accept such actions carried out by the government through independent institutions”.
Nazim expressed concern that such issues would deprive the independent commissions of the opportunity to work independently.
Recovering the MVR 3.2 billion lost in the MMPRC corruption scandal, which involved embezzling the proceeds of the lease payments made by companies for tourism leases made through MMPRC, is an electoral pledge by President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.
Despite a now-disbanded presidential commission investigating the case, no progress has been made and no money has been recovered so far.
Nazim said he is advocating for the recovery of lost money from the state. He said he had cooperated with the investigation in the past and therefore did not accept the government's behind-the-scenes actions using independent institutions to intimidate presidential candidates.
