MDP accuses gov’t of concealment as STELCO dismissal, leaked audio spark corruption concerns
MDP's interim Chairperson MP Ghafoor criticized the government for alleged lack of transparency regarding corruption cases, including the dismissal of STELCO's MD amid leaked audio recordings and controversial transactions involving state assets.
MDP Interim Chairman, Hanimaadhoo Constituency Member Abdul Ghafoor Moosaa | MDP Secretariat
The main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has called on the government to ensure transparency and accountability regarding the dismissal of Ahmed Shamaah Rasheed from his position as Managing Director of STELCO, as well as the allegations arising from a recently leaked audio recording that reportedly implicates corruption.
Addressing a press conference held by MDP on Monday, the party’s interim Chairperson and MP for Hanimaadhoo constituency Abdul Ghafoor Moosa, stated that while numerous corruption cases are surfacing under the current administration, the government appears to be making concerted efforts to conceal facts and deny the public access to critical information.
MP Ghafoor said that following Shamaah’s removal from his post at STELCO, a leaked audio recording surfaced in which he is reportedly heard discussing corrupt activities, giving rise to serious allegations.
He further pointed out that the dismissal of Azhad Rameez, the Head of STELCO’s Procurement Department, has intensified public suspicion about entrenched problems within the state-owned corporation.
He stressed that the government must be held accountable for these developments and has a responsibility to provide clear and credible explanations to the public.
Ghafoor also highlighted contradictions between statements made by Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources Ahmed Shiyam and STO Chairman and businessman Amir Mansoor concerning the alleged sale of K. Maniyafushi to Amir Mansoor without an open and competitive bidding process.
Characterizing the issue as one of serious concern, Ghafoor asserted that the circumstances surrounding the transaction must be fully clarified for the public.
Concluding his remarks, Ghafoor urged the public to remain alert to the government’s handling of major corruption cases, advising citizens to carefully assess these developments and make informed choices in the forthcoming elections.
