Maldives Whistleblower Protection Under Fire as Sentencing Looms

As the Maldivian Prosecutor General prepares to sentence Gasim Abdul Kareem, a whistleblower who exposed a multi-million dollar corruption scandal, Transparency International and Transparency Maldives are calling for an immediate halt to the proceedings.

The Case Against Kareem

Kareem’s disclosures revealed details of a massive corruption scheme involving the diversion of public funds into private accounts. According to Transparency International, the information disclosed is in the public interest and protected under the Maldives Banking Act.

Whistleblower Protection Crucial

“This is not only about Gasim Abdul Kareem, but about the integrity of the financial sector in the Maldives,” said Cobus de Swardt, managing director of Transparency International. “Whistleblowers play a critical role in exposing corruption and wrongdoing, and it is essential that they are protected from retaliation.”

International Support

The case against Kareem has drawn international attention, with the President of the New York City Bar, John S. Kiernan, writing to the Prosecutor General on behalf of the whistleblower. The letter highlights the protections afforded to whistleblowers under Maldivian law, specifically Section 44 of the Maldives Banking Act.

A Test Case for Whistleblower Protection

Mariyam Shiuna, Executive Director of Transparency Maldives, emphasized that Kareem’s actions are a test case for the country’s whistleblower protection laws. “Instead of encouraging whistleblowing, Kareem’s persecution sends a chilling signal to others who witness corruption that speaking out comes with severe consequences,” she said.

Calls for Dismissal and Protection

The organization is urging the Prosecutor General to dismiss the case and provide Kareem with the protection he deserves. Transparency International and Transparency Maldives argue that the information disclosed by Kareem was not only in the public interest but also raised serious questions about corruption and financial mismanagement in the country.

International Concerns

As the sentencing date approaches, international attention is focusing on the need for robust whistleblower protection laws in the Maldives. The case has sparked concern among human rights organizations and advocates for transparency and accountability in the finance sector.

Contact Information

Contact: Transparency International Press Office, Berlin, +49 30 34 38 20 666 or Ahid Rasheed in Male, +960 3304017