ACC has not questioned former justices in ongoing Investigation: Mahaz

Jun 18, 2025, 6:22 AM
ACC has not questioned former justices in ongoing Investigation: Mahaz

Former Supreme Court Justice Mahaz Ali Zahir has revealed that the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has not questioned any of the three former Supreme Court justices under investigation, including himself, Dr. Azmiralda Zahir, and Husnu Al Suood, despite the case being open for over three months.

In a Facebook post shared on Tuesday, Mahaz responded to an Adhadhu report about the stalled investigation, stating that the ACC’s failure to question those involved shows the case is simply being held without progress.

"Holding on to a case for over three months without even a single round of questioning is not an investigation," Mahaz wrote.

He warned that ACC members are only protected under the law if they act in good faith and in line with legal procedures.

When Adhadhu contacted the ACC regarding the investigation, spokesperson Sama confirmed only that the investigation is ongoing, without providing any further details. The commission has not disclosed any information about the case, even in response to Right to Information (RTI) requests.

The ACC launched a criminal investigation into the three justices earlier this year. Following the announcement, the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) suspended all three and initiated a separate ethics probe.

Among the three, Justice Husnu Al Suood resigned, citing political interference in the judiciary by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. The JSC subsequently decided to dismiss all three justices without giving Azmiralda or Mahaz an opportunity to defend themselves.

The matter was then submitted to Parliament, where the dismissals were approved using the supermajority held by the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC). The justices were not granted a hearing or the chance to respond at the committee level either.

Comments

Read More

Latest News

Saudi Ambassador to be dismissed following refusal to join PNC

The Maldivian government is dismissing Ahmed Sareer, the Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, after he refused to join the ruling PNC party. Despite his 40-year diplomatic career, Sareer is being removed as part of a broader directive requiring all diplomats to join the political party, ending a long-standing tradition of neutrality.

Govt to seal Rasmale' deal on Republic Day

The Maldives government plans to sign a definitive agreement with UAE-based Eagle Hills on Republic Day to grant 500 hectares of land for the Rasmalé project. Legislative changes are underway to accommodate the deal, which involves no land acquisition fees. The project chairman confirmed they will comply with all local leasehold laws.

Indian arrested at VIA smuggling MVR 900,000

An Indian national was arrested at Velana International Airport for attempting to smuggle over MVR 900,000 in undeclared foreign currency. The seizure is part of a major government crackdown on illegal dollar trading and unauthorized business activities by foreigners in the Maldives.

Falah accuses Khaleel of prioritising personal gain over nation

PNC leader Ibrahim Falah has accused former Foreign Minister Abdulla Khaleel of putting personal gain above national interests. The criticism follows Khaleel’s public concerns over the Rasmalé project, which involves land allocation to a UAE firm. Falah claims Khaleel’s opposition proves he no longer prioritizes the country's welfare.

Three arrested in alcohol network bust

Police arrested three individuals and seized a large quantity of alcohol during a raid on a distribution network in Malé. The joint operation targeted a residence in the Henveiru ward after a lengthy investigation. Authorities have identified several key players involved in the city's large-scale illegal alcohol trade.

Resolution demands transparency over Rasmalé deal

MP Meekail Ahmed Naseem submitted a resolution to the People’s Majlis demanding transparency over the Rasmalé development deal with Eagle Hills. The move seeks to disclose commercial terms and ensure legal compliance, following concerns that the government is withholding information about granting land to a foreign entity.

Thilafushi Port: Agreements with Chinese firm classified

Maldives Ports Limited has classified its agreements with China Harbour Engineering Company regarding the Thilafushi Port relocation. Officials refused to disclose contract values or specific details, citing legal consultations. This lack of transparency follows government concerns over foreign influence and diplomatic shifts.

Newsletter

Get the latest news delivered straight to your inbox