Ibrahim Didi questions why President fears illicit enrichment asset seizure bill

Ibrahim Didi, the Member of Parliament for the South Feydhoo constituency, has made remarks suggesting that the wealth acquired by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu was obtained through illicit means.

Speaking at Tuesday's parliamentary sitting, MP Didi questioned whether it is President Muizzu who should fear the introduction of a bill aimed at seizing assets acquired through illicit enrichment.

MP Didi stated that the current state of affairs in society is resulting in the loss of public funds. He further emphasized that the state is not the private property of any individual, but rather belongs to the people.

The President is not opposed to enacting such laws for his own safety and security, and neither am I. However, our primary focus remains the protection of the rights of the citizens.

Ibrahim Didi

MP Didi stated that, in his view, every administration to date has led the state toward bankruptcy, yet none of the misappropriated assets have ever been recovered.

Furthermore, MP Didi stated that such laws are enacted to serve as a deterrent, adding that those who do not fear the law are free to act as they please. He also emphasized that those who abide by the law have nothing to fear.

MP Didi's remarks follow similar allegations made by Maamigili MP Gasim Ibrahim during the 2023 presidential campaign. At the time, Gasim claimed that President Muizzu’s private residence was funded by illicit gains obtained during the construction of the Sinamale' Bridge. Public scrutiny regarding these allegations has also persisted, with many citizens questioning the President over the bridge's final design, specifically pointing to the omission of a lane originally included in the initial plans.