Maldives Enacts Whistleblower Protection Law After High-Profile Case
The Maldivian government has finally enacted a whistleblower protection law, following a high-profile case that exposed widespread corruption and led to the jailing of the country’s former president.
A Major Victory for Transparency Advocates
The new law is seen as a major victory for transparency advocates in the Maldives, where whistleblowers have historically faced retaliation and intimidation. The law was drafted by Transparency Maldives, a local anti-corruption organization, with input from international experts.
What Does the Law Provide?
- Provides protections for citizens who report corruption and abuse of power
- Allows whistleblowers to speak out without fear of reprisal
Background: The Gasim Abdul Kareem Case
The push for whistleblower protection came after the arrest in 2016 of Gasim Abdul Kareem, a regional manager at the Bank of Maldives, who leaked documents showing massive corruption schemes involving government officials and wealthy businessmen. Despite being a whistleblower, Kareem was initially charged with data theft and illegal disclosure and faced up to five years in prison.
International Attention
The case drew international attention, with Transparency International’s secretariat in Berlin and the New York Bar Association urging the Maldivian authorities to drop the charges against Kareem. The court ultimately convicted him but gave him a lenient sentence, allowing him to walk free on time served.
A Catalyst for Change
The experience of Gasim Abdul Kareem highlighted the need for whistleblower protection laws in the Maldives. Transparency Maldives had been advocating for such legislation since 2016, and finally, after years of efforts, it was passed into law in October 2019.
Hailed as a Major Achievement
Eva Abdulla, an MP from the Maldivian Democratic Party, said that Transparency Maldives’ contribution to the development of the bill was “invaluable.” The new law has been hailed as a major achievement by anti-corruption activists in the Maldives.
Still Work to Be Done
However, there is still work to be done to ensure that whistleblowers are protected and supported in the Maldives. Gasim Abdul Kareem struggled to find work after his release due to his criminal record and deserves a full exoneration.
Continued Efforts by Transparency Maldives
Transparency Maldives continues to monitor the country’s whistleblower protection law and raise awareness about whistleblowing. The organization also provides free and confidential legal advice to witnesses and victims of corruption, including those who have not yet spoken up.
A Significant Step Towards Increasing Transparency
The enactment of the whistleblower protection law in the Maldives is seen as a significant step towards increasing transparency and accountability in the country’s financial sector. It sets an important precedent for other countries in the region and demonstrates that even in challenging environments, whistleblowers can make a difference.