The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has said that corruption allegations are frequently filed without any factual basis to defame individuals, and has confirmed that a formal policy is being developed to address such cases.
The ACC made these remarks during a meeting with the Parliament’s Committee on Independent Institutions yesterday, where the commission provided updates on its activities over the past year.
During the session, Fuvahmulah South MP Ibrahim Hussain questioned the commission’s procedures regarding complaints lodged specifically to damage the reputation of individuals.
In response, ACC President Adam Shamil acknowledged the issue, stating, "Cases are indeed filed with absolutely no foundation, intended only to create the illusion of a legitimate complaint."
Shamil noted that current laws do not provide a specific, direct procedure for handling complaints filed for defamatory purposes. He further alleged that efforts are also being made to discredit the members of the commission itself.
"Regarding such complaints—particularly those targeting high-ranking political figures, but not limited to them, including members of the judiciary—we have formulated a strategy within the commission with the assistance of the European Union," Shamil said.
He added that the implementation of this strategy is in its final stages. Once in effect, Shamil noted, the public will have greater clarity on how these matters are handled.
The Maldives continues to rank poorly on the Corruption Perceptions Index, with many corruption cases stalled at the ACC. The commission has also faced public criticism over allegations that it investigates opposition politicians and judges at the behest of the government.
