Anti-graft NGO lambasts Speaker’s silence on corruption

In an open letter on Thursday, Mariyam Shiuna, the executive director of Transparency Maldives, noted parliamentarians from across the political spectrum have been accused of illicit enrichment and taking bribes.

But the ruling Progressive Party of the Maldives dominated parliament had refused to debate the issue, throwing out urgent motions proposed by opposition MPs, the letter noted.

“While investigations reveal that massive embezzlement from the state treasury have taken place, and while MPs and companies linked to them are rumored to have benefited, why hasn’t the Majlis investigated these allegations and taking action against all involved?” the letter asked.