ACC pres. accuses president's office minister of intimidation

President of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has accused Minister at the President’s Office, Ahmed Sameer of attempting to influence the commission’s work.

Maryam Shiuna made the accusation at Monday’s meeting of the parliament’s committee on independent institutions, where the new member of the ACC were summoned.

While they were questioned on whether there have been any influences from any government officials, Shiuna responded that she has received messages from individuals at senior posts since being appointed to the post, adding that she does not respond to such messages or calls.

However, Shiuna recalled having received a call from the president’s office minister. She said that Sameer had called regarding a case that did not involve him, and spoken in a manner that encouraged a certain decision.

She described it as “intimidation.” Shiuna also added that he had mentioned that the ACC officials might be summoned to the parliamentary commission for questioning over the matter, during a call.

Furthermore, the ACC president said that she had informed the matter to other members of the commission.

When the committee members inquired on the case Sameer had spoken regarding, Shiuna said that it was over a case involving a state minister.

However, she did not reveal any further details in the case.

Shiuna further spoke against giving such opportunities to any individuals “no matter how small or big the case.”