Thursday
19th Sep 2024
Dhivehi Edition
Public accounts committee
Parliament Seeks Detailed Report on Compensation Paid by Previous Government
Meeting of the public accounts committee. Photo: Majilis
Parliament's Public Accounts Committee has approved a proposal to seek detailed information on the compensation payments made by former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's government. The decision was made during a meeting held today, where Funadhoo MP Mohamed Mamdhooh stated that more than MVR 2 billion was spent on compensation between 2018 and 2023, during Solih's tenure.
Mamdooh emphasized the importance of understanding the specifics of such substantial expenditures from public funds. He submitted a formal request to the committee to obtain details from the Attorney General's Office regarding the MVR 2.4 billion disbursed as compensation by the previous administration.
The proposal was seconded by Hithadhoo Central MP Ahmed Azaan. Azaan pointed out that the Attorney General's Office is currently investigating how MVR 1 billion was compensated in just 10 cases handled by the settlement committee established by the former government. He stressed that it is also the responsibility of the Public Accounts Committee to ensure that state funds were spent in accordance with the law.
The committee approved the decision with unanimous support from all members present, except for Dr. Ahmed Shamheed, MDP MP from Hulhumale' South constituency, who abstained from voting.
The scrutiny over compensation payments is part of a broader effort to ensure transparency and accountability in the use of public funds. The substantial amount of MVR 2.4 billion paid out in compensation raises significant questions about the management and justification of these expenditures.
In recent years, the Maldivian government has faced increasing demands for greater fiscal responsibility and transparency. The approval of this proposal reflects the Parliament's commitment to addressing these concerns and ensuring that public funds are managed prudently.
The Attorney General's Office is expected to provide a detailed report on the compensation payments, which will shed light on the specific cases and the rationale behind the significant payouts. This information will be crucial for the Public Accounts Committee to assess whether the funds were allocated and spent in compliance with legal and procedural requirements.
As the investigation proceeds, it will be essential to consider the broader implications for governance and financial oversight in the Maldives. The outcome of this inquiry could lead to reforms aimed at enhancing transparency and accountability in government spending, particularly in areas involving large financial settlements.
The Public Accounts Committee's decision marks a significant step towards ensuring that public funds are used effectively and responsibly, reinforcing the principles of good governance and accountability in the Maldives.