Muizzu appoints seven-member commission to investigate Chagos dispute and hold those responsible accountable

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has established a special commission to investigate the Maldives' handling of the maritime boundary dispute with Mauritius at the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS). The "Presidential Commission to Investigate the Maldives' Actions in ITLOS Case No. 28" was formed under the authority granted by Article 115(g) of the Constitution, following allegations that the previous administration's conduct resulted in irreparable and significant losses to the nation's maritime territory and continental shelf.

The President announced the decision to establish such a commission during this year's Presidential Address.

The President's Office stated that the commission was established following reports from international experts appointed to review the case brought by Mauritius to the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS). These experts advised that the loss of a significant portion of Maldivian territory was a direct result of the Maldives' handling of the matter. Given that this represents an irreparable blow to the nation's fisheries and its maritime and seabed resources, the commission has been tasked with investigating the issue and determining the necessary course of action.

The following individuals have been appointed as members of the Commission:

1. Al-Usthaz Ahmed Shakir

2. Mr. Abdul Azeez Yusuf

3. Dr. Aminath Shafiya Adam

4. Dr. Abdul Muhsin Mohamed

5. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Retd.) Mohamed Sodiq

6. Mr. Ahmed Ali Manik

7. Uz. Fathimath Minhath Izzath.

Ahmed Shakir has been appointed as the President of the Commission.

The commission's mandate is to investigate the conduct of state employees, advisors, and all officials and authorities directly or indirectly involved on behalf of the state regarding "ITLOS Case No. 28." This investigation will cover the period leading up to the filing of the case, the substance and progression of the submission, the Maldives' legal response, and all surrounding circumstances related to the matter.

Furthermore, the responsibilities include investigating and determining whether there was any legal negligence on their part and, if such negligence is identified, establishing the extent of their legal liability.

The Commission's responsibilities also include determining the necessary actions to be taken against those held accountable and proposing measures to reorganize systems based on investigative findings to prevent the recurrence of such incidents in the future.

The presidential decree stipulates that the Commission shall remain in operation until the President determines that it has successfully fulfilled its mandated responsibilities.