Music Background Candidate Scores Higher Than Human Rights Graduate in HRCM Selection

Hussain Ziyad, the Member of Parliament for the Vaikaradhoo constituency, has leveled sharp criticism against the Parliament’s Committee on Human Rights and Gender regarding the scoring process used to select a candidate for a vacant seat on the Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM).

Speaking during the parliamentary debate on the committee report, Ziyad highlighted the criteria used for interviewing candidates for appointment to independent institutions.

Ziyad stated that while 20 marks are allocated for position-related education, the individual who topped the list with a 92 percent score holds a Master’s degree in music. In contrast, the candidate with a Master’s degree in Human Rights Law received a score of 86 percent.

Ziyad alleged that the underlying reason for such an outcome is the effort to appoint specific individuals whose names appear on a list sent by the President's Office.

He further stated that this serves as evidence of political influence being used to appoint individuals to institutions, while denying opportunities to those with the necessary educational qualifications. Ziyad added that this demonstrates the extent to which the current administration disregards the importance of education.

There are established criteria for scoring candidates during interviews for appointments to independent institutions and statutory positions. While points are awarded across various categories, one of the most critical components is the 20 marks allocated for education directly relevant to the role. It is deeply concerning that the candidate who received a 92 percent passing grade holds a Master’s degree in music, whereas the candidate who received 86 percent holds a Master’s degree in human rights law.

Hussain Ziyad

According to the committee's report, Shamoon Hameed of H. Meenaaz secured the top position with a score of 92 percent. Samaau Ahmed Najib of Asege, GDh. Thinadhoo, followed in second place with a score of 86 percent. Samaau is a highly experienced and educated professional in the field, currently serving as a member of the Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM).

As opposition members direct criticism toward this issue, many contend that the independence and autonomy of oversight bodies have been compromised by political influence. The public also maintains that prioritizing individuals with relevant education and expertise when appointing members to crucial institutions like the Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) is essential to upholding institutional integrity.