Maldives Strives for Anti-Corruption Progress Amidst Hope and Challenges

A New Era of Anti-Corruption Efforts Under President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih

The Maldivian government’s commitment to anti-corruption has been a major point of discussion since the election of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih in September. The president’s 100-day agenda included several anti-corruption pledges, which have raised hopes among citizens and civil society groups.

Anti-Corruption Pledges: A Step Towards Progress?

President Solih’s administration has made several commitments to combat corruption, including:

• Stopping officials from taking bribes related to expatriate quotas and other administrative processes
• Sending the whistleblower protection bill to Parliament
• Formulating a committee to investigate cases of grand corruption and money laundering

These efforts have been informed by Transparency International Maldives’ (TI-Maldives) recommendations, which were submitted as part of a good governance and anti-corruption agenda in October 2018. The organization was also invited to conduct trainings for senior government officials on anti-corruption and good governance.

Challenges Ahead: Overcoming Corruption’s Deep Roots

Despite these positive steps, there are still significant challenges to overcome. The country’s deep roots of corruption within its political and accountability institutions present a major hurdle in the fight against corruption.

• The Anti-Corruption Commission recently released a report showing complicity of public officials and politicians across political parties in embezzling US$79 million from Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Company (MMPRC)
• TI-Maldives has called for immediate systemic reforms to combat corruption effectively
• Civil society groups must hold the government accountable, particularly when their efforts contradict earlier promises and commitments

A Watchful Eye: Holding the Government Accountable

As part of its effort to make good on its 100-day agenda, the Maldivian government must ensure that it follows through on its anti-corruption commitments and implements systemic reforms to combat corruption. The country’s citizens and civil society groups will be watching closely to see if the government delivers on its promises.