Shathir accuses ACC of bias, selective investigations in gov’t corruption cases
Shathir criticizes ACC for selectively investigating cases based on specific party interests rather than acting independently
MDP National Congress Kudahuvadhoo Constituency President Shathir Abdul Rahman
Shathir Abdul Rahman, a National Congress member of the main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and President of the Kudahuvadhoo constituency, has raised serious concerns over the integrity and impartiality of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC).
According to Shaathir, the ACC selectively investigates cases based on the interests and directions of specific parties rather than acting independently within its legal mandate.
His remarks came in the context of a newly submitted complaint urging ACC to investigate allegations that the TV station MMTV was established using funds from the state-run National Social Protection Agency (NSPA) in 2024.
Shathir pointed out that while numerous complaints involving the current administration have been submitted, only those targeting political opponents or individuals not aligned with the government appear to receive prompt attention. He criticized this pattern of selective action, arguing it undermines the credibility of oversight institutions and erodes public trust.
The broader concern, he stated, is that institutions tasked with ensuring accountability and transparency are no longer functioning independently. This lack of institutional neutrality continues to be a major point of contention among opposition parties and civil society.
The MMTV case, submitted by Ahmed “Maaz” Saleem, highlights growing allegations of corruption tied to misuse of public funds. The complaint, addressed to ACC President Adam Shamil, claims that MMTV was launched under Maldives Media House Private Limited using NSPA resources, an accusation that demands urgent and impartial investigation.
As scrutiny of the anti-corruption watchdog intensifies, so too does public frustration over perceived impunity and the selective enforcement of anti-corruption laws under the current administration.
