Former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom has launched a sharp verbal attack against the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) and the Maldives Police Service, accusing them of failing to take independent initiative in investigating allegations of corrupt land and lagoon distributions under President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s administration.
Speaking from the audience at a recent gathering organized by the People’s National Front (PNF), Yameen expressed deep concern over the inaction of state oversight bodies. He asserted that independent institutions have failed to fulfill their statutory duties and remain passive in the face of widespread criminal activity and systemic corruption occurring across the country.
Criticizing the current administration, Yameen alleged that President Muizzu’s government lacks sincerity, pointing to continuous reports regarding the free distribution of state-owned lands, lagoons, and reefs. He stated that corruption has become rampant across all state sectors, accusing government officials of prioritizing the preservation of their own power and enriching a select inner circle over delivering actual national development.
Yameen highlighted that the ACC is legally empowered as an independent body to launch ex-officio investigations and pursue legal action without waiting for formal complaints, expressing frustration that these powers are not being utilized. Drawing a comparison to his own administration from 2013 to 2018, Yameen maintained that he never distributed state land to family members or close friends in Malé, contrasting his tenure with the allegations currently surrounding the government.
Furthermore, the former president questioned why police officers require external instructions before investigating evident criminal matters when full details are publicly available. Concluding his remarks, Yameen stated that oversight bodies must be held accountable for failing to adhere to the principle of “prevention is better than cure” and for creating an environment where corruption can flourish.
