Saturday
20th Apr 2024
Dhivehi Edition
Parliament members have expressed concern due to delays in prosecution decisions for the Minister of Youth, Sports, and Community Empowerment Ahmed Mahloof’s case sent to the Prosecutor General’s Office (PGO) by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC).
Mahloof is suspected of receiving a sum of money from the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) corruption scandal. It has now been over two months since the case was submitted to the PGO.
Mahloof has been suspended from his position since the matter was sent to the PGO. However, he continues to receive a minister’s salary and benefits.
Although Prosecutor General Hussain Shameem claimed a prosecution decision will be made within six days, it has not been more than 60 days. Greatly concerned, Dhaandhoo MP Yaugoob Abdulla has stated that each day delaying the prosecution decision results in losses for many.
Yaugoob further stated that it poses a significant danger to the youth, and delaying the prosecution decision is an obstruction of justice.
Velidhoo MP Mohamed Abdulla Shafeeg described Mahloof as a capable minister who worked tirelessly for his organization. He claimed the public is being deprived while Mahloof remains in suspension with no knowledge of the operations of his ministry.
Makunudhoo MP Mohamed Raaee has expressed concern, as the youth are closely observing the minister’s treatment.
According to Thinadhoo MP Abdul Mughunee, delaying prosecution decisions for Mahloof is not justice. He noted that former President Yameen Abdul Gayoom was prosecuted within a week, and former MP Mohamed Nihan was prosecuted within ten days.
Parliament representative for Gan constituency Mohamed Visam reiterated that the minister’s treatment is apparent. He stressed that one must not sacrifice another for political gain and personal agendas.
Minister Mahloof has stated that he is being prosecuted as a political scapegoat. The Youth Minister iterated that he will not resign even if prosecuted, despite previously stating that he would resign.