Shameem hints at resignation, assures he didn't succumb to influence

Aug 22, 2024, 12:10 PM
PG Shameem.

PG Shameem.

Prosecutor General Hussain Shameem has indicated that he might resign from his post after the Parliament's Judiciary Committee voted to dismiss him.

After defending himself at the Judiciary Committee, Shameem held a press conference at the PG Office and "personally thanked journalists."

Many of the questions he faced at the press conference were about allegations that the current government and former government had attempted to influence Shameem and whether he would resign.

In response, Shameem said he had "never wanted a position" and that he was aware a day might come when he would be dismissed due to the political atmosphere in the country.

"This is not because of lack of confidence. This is happening for another reason. That is how things run in Maldives still. I don't have any complaints over it," Shameem stated.

"A PG even resigned when I worked here as a deputy. I accept these things."

Shameem alleged that different people tried to influence him but anyone who attempted is aware that it cannot happen.

He added that he had not done anything that would tarnish his reputation in his long legal career and that is the biggest motivation to stay from being influenced by others.

"I don't want to do anything that will tarnish my name after working in this field for 20 years," he said.

Shameem noted that he pressed charges against some senior members of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) when the party was in power in the past five years with a supermajority of the Parliament.

"MDP ministers and MDP MPs have also faced charges. If I had been influenced, it would not happen that way,” Shameem said.

However, the charges were later withdrawn. These include sexual assault charges against former Tourism Minister Ali Waheed, corruption charges against former Youth Minister Ahmed Mahloof and human trafficking charges against former MP Ali Riza.

Shameem said the Prosecutor General's Office has been transformed into an institution that will provide good quality services to the people and journalists.

“As a world-class institution, citizens and journalists have access to services and information at a rapid pace, then someone else will take over, but the main foundation has been laid,” he said.

Comments

Read More

Latest News

Priority should be sale of assets to generate immediate liquidity

Former President Mohamed Nasheed urged the Maldives to prioritize selling assets for immediate liquidity rather than long-term projects like the $20 billion Rasmalé development. He argued the UAE-backed waterfront deal will not provide the urgent cash flow needed to resolve the nation's current financial crisis.

Police seek charges against six men for assaulting officers

Maldives Police are seeking charges against six men for assaulting officers during a drug search in Maafushi. Five suspects remain in custody, while one was released by the court. Authorities have also appealed the release of a seventh individual involved in the August incident.

No tax concessions for UAE developer in Rasmale' project

The Maldives government awarded the $20 billion Rasmalé project to UAE developer Eagle Hills without tax concessions or exemptions. All business activities will follow national tax laws, with payments processed through local banks. The state expects over $11 billion in revenue from sales fees and commercial revenue sharing.

No details on size and value of land given to Dubai company

The Maldives government signed a $20 billion deal with Dubai’s Eagle Hills to develop a massive integrated zone in Rasmalé. While the project promises 54,000 jobs and housing, officials have withheld specific details regarding the land size, valuation, and lease terms. The area is expected to operate as a special economic township.

Rasmale' investor to build 5,000 housing units in Hulhumale'

The Maldivian government has partnered with UAE-based Eagle Hills to build 5,000 housing units in Hulhumalé using a contractor financing model. This agreement follows a massive $20 billion deal for the firm to develop Rasmalé. The project will feature luxury residences and a world-class marina without impacting existing housing plans.

AMFA concludes first Junior Lifeguard Program

The Australia Maldives Friendship Association successfully completed its first Junior Lifeguard Program pilot in Thulusdhoo and Fuvahmulah. The initiative trained youth in water safety and rescue skills to enhance maritime security. AMFA plans to expand the program across the Maldives by 2027 through partnerships with local councils.

Project to build international bowling arena in Hulhumale'

A private company has been awarded a MVR 20 million project to build the Maldives' first international-standard bowling arena in Hulhumale'. The two-story facility aims to host global competitions, though the direct award process lacks an official statement. This project is part of a broader plan to develop world-class sports infrastructure.

Newsletter

Get the latest news delivered straight to your inbox