Serious Allegations Against Election Commission Members Prompt Investigation into Corruption and Misconduct

Allegations of serious misconduct and corruption within the Election Commission (EC) have surfaced, with three key members accused of selling data and engaging in fraudulent practices during the recent presidential elections. The matter has prompted an investigation by Parliament’s Committee on Independent Institutions, with a report detailing the accusations being submitted for further review.

The accused members include Vice President Ali Nashath, and Commissioners Mohamed Asif and Dr. Mohamed Zahir. The committee's findings suggest that the trio used confidential electoral data to create and sell apps derived from the recently concluded election database. It is alleged that they shared this data with political parties, potentially influencing the outcome of the election. The accusations also extend to falsifying re-registration documents, a serious violation under the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) Act.

According to the committee, the actions of these members have been in violation of the ACC Act's Section 17(a), which prohibits self-interested actions in decision-making. The allegations are compounded by accusations of attempting to manipulate party affiliations and prevent the formation of specific political groups. Members are also accused of engaging in lucrative deals involving computer systems and other equipment, allegedly to benefit certain businesses in exchange for large profits.

In addition to these allegations, Nashath reportedly attempted to obstruct the formation of a political party by withholding a signature list from the President's Office and allegedly threatened former employees of the President’s Office to act in line with certain political interests. He is also accused of making disparaging remarks about the reputation of the EC's President, Fuad Taufeeq.

The committee, in a closed-door session, also reviewed the dismissals of several members from the ACC and EC, approving the removal of five individuals implicated in similar misconduct. While further details remain under investigation, the gravity of the charges has already led to a no-confidence motion against EC President Fuad Taufeeq, reflecting the deepening crisis within the institution.

The committee's report, which includes 19 specific charges against the EC Vice President and his colleagues, will now be subject to a parliamentary vote. Given the magnitude of these allegations, further scrutiny and political fallout are expected in the coming days as the investigation continues.

This unfolding scandal highlights the challenges facing the integrity of electoral institutions and raises concerns over the transparency and fairness of electoral processes in the Maldives. As Parliament prepares to vote on the proposed removals, the public and political landscape eagerly await the next steps in this developing story.