Transparency Maldives Accuses President Solih of Abusing Power During Campaign Trip"

Transparency Maldives, the local chapter of Transparency International, has raised concerns about the mixing of official business and electoral campaigning during a trip funded by President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's campaign. The organization has referred to this as an abuse of office and position of power of the President.

According to Transparency Maldives, the fact that public events and ceremonies are held during and alongside campaign trips leads to confusion amongst voters with regards to the incumbent's role as a party candidate and a public official. The organization has added that this adds to the perception of abuse of power.

Transparency Maldives has stated that these actions raise concerns with regards to the integrity of the electoral process and the fairness of the electoral environment. The organization has defined abuse of official position as the use of office and related powers and privileges to advance the electoral interests of a particular candidate or party, usually the incumbent, or to disadvantage opposing parties or candidates.

Transparency Maldives has reiterated its calls to the Maldivian government to stop the abuse of State resources and office, and work towards strengthening the Electoral Legal Framework and ensuring its effective implementation prior to the 2023 Presidential Election. The organization believes that while office-holders have access to powers, privileges and resources, a clear distinction must be made with regards to their role as public officials and as party candidates.