President Muizzu: Information regarding the development of the "Male' Taxi App," allegedly involving 13 million rufiyaa in embezzlement, was received informally

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has stated that he only became aware through unofficial channels that work was proceeding on the "Male' Taxi App," a project allegedly involving 13 million Rufiyaa in embezzlement.

During a press conference held at the President's Office on Monday, President Muizzu responded to a journalist's inquiry by stating that he had received reports regarding the "Male' Taxi App" developed by MTCC not functioning properly. He further noted that he had only become aware of the application's ongoing development through informal channels.

Addressing the allegations of corruption, President Muizzu stated that the Ministry of Transport would conduct a thorough investigation into all such matters to ensure that procedures are carried out correctly. He further asserted that no individual would be permitted to engage in any unlawful activities or exert undue influence to facilitate wrongdoing.

President Muizzu’s remarks come amid serious allegations of corruption involving the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC). The state-owned enterprise is accused of awarding a 13-million-rupee contract to develop the "Male' Taxi App" to an inexperienced firm. According to a reliable source, 34 million rufiyaa had already been disbursed for the application, despite it being non-functional at the time the taxi service was launched.

While the status of the application remains unclear, the Male' Taxi Line website was launched on April 18, 2024, and has already begun charging for its services.