President Mohamed Muizzu has claimed that the Maldives has a transparent and fair system after distributing MVR 2.7 billion projects without an open tender process.
On the occasion of the International Anti-Corruption Day, the President's Office website quoted Muizzu as reaffirming: "the Maldives' commitment to integrity, transparency, and accountability in shaping the nation's future."
However, the government continues to refuse to disclose details of the biggest development projects. The government has also faced criticism for awarding projects worth MVR 2.7 billion without competitive bidding in a secretive manner.
Muizzu claimed that his government "maintains zero tolerance towards corruption and is committed to eliminating this threat."
Underlining the dangers of systemic corruption, he said: “systemic corruption endangers the rule of law, obstructs sustainable development, weakens democratic governance, and undermines citizens' fundamental rights."
He claimed that the Maldives 2.0 Digital Transformation project was underway to increase government transparency, while the Himmi Corruption Risk Self-Assessment Toolkit has been introduced for public institutions and State-Owned Enterprises. He also highlighted the inauguration of the anti-corruption academy.
"The Maldives' accession to the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) in 2007 as a solemn obligation, stressing that the country remains determined to uphold the Convention's principles with transparency and resolve," Muizzu stated.
But the Muizzu administration has been accused of carrying out disinformation campaigns targeting the international community, while its actions do not reflect the principles of international treaties and integrity.
Muizzu concluded his message by reiterating the administration's commitment to "building a country where integrity flourishes, democratic governance is strengthened, the rule of law prevails, and the justice system remains fair and impartial."
However, Muizzu has been accused of intimidating judges and influencing the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) and the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) to change the top court's bench.
He changed the top court's bench after it decided to proceed with a constitutional case over the amendments to chain lawmakers to the ruling party by ensuring they will lose their seats if expelled from the party.
