Obstruction by authorities preventing from asset declaration: MP Faris

Obstruction by state authorities prevented him from declaring his assets as required of Parliament Members, says jailed MP FAhmed Faris Maumoon.

In a letter addressed to the Speaker, MP Faris said he wishes to submit his asset declaration, however, he is prevented from doing so, since he was jailed illegally by state authorities. MP Faris accused the Speaker, the Secretary General and the Secretariat of the People’s Majlis being negligent in ensuring his rights and privileges as a member of the Parliament. He also pointed out in the letter - which was made public by his lawyer and cousin Uz Maumoon Hameed, that he has been jailed since the 18th of July on false accusations. The MP expressed frustration over the fact the state authorities did not provide any assistance to him to submit his asset declaration.

MP Faris ended his letter to the Speaker saying that he would submit his asset declaration once he is able to do so. MP Fairs is being remanded by authorities over allegations of bribery, a charge to which he denies categorically. Former President and Faris’ father Maumoon Abdul Gayyoom accused the government of jailing MP Faris over trumped up pollical charges.

Elected MPs are required to declare their assets before the end of October.