Efforts underway with ACC to curb corruption in sports: Minister
19 އޯގަސްޓު 2026 | ބުދަ 08:59The Minister of Sports has announced measures to enhance integrity within the sports sector by strengthening audit systems and financial regulations for associations, effectively curbing undue influence in elections. Furthermore, insurance coverage has been introduced to ensure athlete safety, while specialized training programs have commenced to bolster the administrative and management capabilities of sports organizations.
The ceremony held at the Youth Hub to launch the research report identifying corruption risks within the sports governance and management system. | ACC
Minister of Youth Empowerment, Sports and Fitness Abdulla Rafiu, has announced that the ministry is working closely with the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) and relevant legal authorities to combat corruption and malpractice within the sports sector.
The Minister made these remarks while speaking at a ceremony held at the Youth Hub to launch a research report identifying corruption risks within the sports governance and management system.
The Minister stated that the government has taken the initiative to address existing challenges within the sports sector, with significant efforts already underway in collaboration with relevant authorities.
In this regard, the Minister highlighted that the "Pachas" campaign was launched in 2024 in collaboration with the Anti-Corruption Commission to promote integrity within the sports sector.
The Minister noted that the systems for monitoring and auditing the expenditure of state funds allocated to sports associations and clubs have now been further strengthened. He further highlighted that robust financial regulations and guidelines have been introduced and made mandatory to ensure transparency in all financial transactions.
The Minister stated that government interference in association elections has been brought to an end, noting that the regulations governing sports associations and athlete-related matters have now been strengthened.
The Minister further stated that the governing statutes of sports associations have been amended and reformed to align with international standards and the Maldives Sports Act. He also noted that several significant amendments have been introduced to the national legislation governing sports.
Furthermore, the Minister highlighted that health insurance has been arranged for national team athletes and officials. He also noted the implementation of mandatory minimum medical requirements at venues hosting national and international tournaments to ensure safety and security.
The Minister emphasized that fostering integrity among sports administrators, coaches, and athletes is of paramount importance. To this end, he noted that a series of specialized training programs has already been launched to enhance governance and provide essential financial management skills.
