Ghafoor's warning to independent institutions: "you will be brought to justice"

Jan 7, 2026, 7:25 AM
MP Abdul Ghafoor Moosa. -- Photo: People's Majlis

MP Abdul Ghafoor Moosa. -- Photo: People's Majlis

The opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) Chairperson Abdul Ghafoor Moosa has issued a warning to officials of independent institutions.

Speaking at an MDP gathering last night (January 6), the MP for Hanimaadhoo accused the Muizzu administration of influencing independent institutions.

"You are paid with the tax collected from the people. You should not stay in your jobs if you don't know that. The institutions should not do anything to please the government," Ghafoor said referring to officials of independent institutions.

He assured that the MDP would return to power and those who neglected their legal responsibility would be brought to justice.

Ghafoor's warning came as the Supreme Court bench reconstituted by President Mohamed Muizzu sits on a constitutional case on MP disqualification.

The government rushed constitutional amendments to chain lawmakers to the ruling party by ensuring their disqualification for leaving of expulsion from the party.

Three Supreme Court justices were arbitrarily removed from the bench after they accepted the constitutional case. Their removal was facilitated through the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC).

Meanwhile, it had been six months since the court completed hearings on the disqualification of Hithadhoo North MP Mohamed Sinaan after he failed to repay a debt. But the Supreme Court continues to delay the verdict for the ruling party MP.

Despite the Supreme Court's actions, Muizzu claims he does not influence the court or the judges.

It has also been revealed that Muizzu and Elections Commission (EC) President Mohamed Zahid held a “secret meeting” at the President's Office before the government proposed a constitutional amendment bill to merge the parliamentary and presidential elections.

The government and the EC have not yet commented on the meeting.

There have been increasing allegations of corruption against the Muizzu administration, but the ACC has not disclosed whether it is investigating these cases.

Comments

Read More

Latest News

MDP to stage protests if referendum is not held on Rasmale' deal

The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has passed a resolution to launch mass protests if the government does not hold a public referendum regarding the Rasmalé project. The opposition demands a halt to the project, citing concerns over secret financing and the potential sale of the site to a foreign businessman.

Nasheed announces full support for Rasmale' project

Former President Mohamed Nasheed has declared his full support for the government's plan to sell part of the Rasmalé project to a UAE businessman. Despite opposition within the MDP calling for a public referendum, Nasheed argues the investment will yield long-term benefits for the Maldives. He remains the sole party member against the move.

Chinese Ambassador applauds Muizzu's successful Pakistan trip

Chinese Ambassador Kong Xianhua praised President Muizzu’s successful state visit to Pakistan, where 20 agreements were signed to boost bilateral trade. The meeting between Chinese and Pakistani officials highlights strengthening ties, which India is monitoring closely given the regional dynamics and its own financial support to the Maldives.

Defence Minister visits the UAE embassy

Defence Minister Hassan Rasheed met with UAE Chargé d'Affaires Heba Al Jneibi to discuss strengthening bilateral ties. The visit follows controversy over a deal to sell 500 hectares of the Rasmalé reclamation project to UAE-based Eagle Hills. This move contradicts President Muizzu’s earlier pledge to keep the land under local ownership.

Commission formed to investigate the alleged sale of territory

President Muizzu has formed a commission to investigate the alleged sale of Maldivian maritime territory during a boundary dispute with the Chagos Archipelago. The inquiry will examine potential legal negligence by the previous administration and recommend actions against those responsible to prevent future occurrences.

Boating Association demands probe over diver altercation

The National Boating Association of Maldives has called for a formal probe into a viral video showing an underwater physical struggle between two diving teams. The NBAM condemned the incident and urged authorities to investigate the ownership and regulatory compliance of the vessels involved to protect the industry's reputation.

Five injured after gas cylinder explosion at Hulhumale’ cafe

Five people were injured, with four hospitalized, after a gas cylinder exploded at a cafe in Hulhumale' Phase 1. Emergency teams responded to the resulting fire near the Ruhgandu 1 area. Police are currently investigating the cause of the blast.

Newsletter

Get the latest news delivered straight to your inbox