A proposed legislative amendment requiring senior government officials to publicly disclose their financial statements has sparked debate in Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee, with several MPs warning against politicizing the role of the Auditor General, on Tuesday.
The amendment, submitted by Galolhu North MP Mohamed Ibrahim (Kudu), seeks to revise both the Audit Act and the Privatization and Corporatization Act, mandating that members of independent commissions, heads of statutory bodies, and senior officials of state-owned enterprises (SOEs) submit audited financial declarations within 30 days of assuming office and annually thereafter. The bill also proposes a MVR 5,000 fine for non-compliance.
Deputy Speaker Ahmed Nazim presides over a sitting of the Parliament. (Photo/People's Majlis)
During Tuesday’s committee meeting, Deputy Speaker Ahmed Nazim cautioned that expanding the Auditor General’s mandate to include auditing financial statements of ministers and top officials could expose the Audit Office to political influence. “We do not want the Auditor General to be involved in political affairs,” Nazim said, emphasizing the need to consult the Auditor General before proceeding with the bill.
Hithadhoo Central MP Ahmed Azaan Marzooq echoed concerns about fragmented legislation, suggesting that a unified Asset Declaration Bill would be more effective than piecemeal amendments. He noted that the Attorney General’s Office is currently drafting an Asset Recovery Bill, which could serve as a more comprehensive framework.
However, Hanimaadhoo MP Abdul Ghafoor Moosa argued that delays in introducing the Asset Declaration Bill should not stall Kudu’s proposed reforms. He urged swift passage of the amendments, citing repeated postponements of asset recovery legislation across successive governments.
South Hulhumale' MP Dr. Ahmed Shamheed. (Photo/People's Majlis)
Hulhumale' South MP Dr Ahmed Shamheed referenced a study paper previously submitted by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), which was supported by the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA). The MMA had advised that financial statements should be submitted by public officials, reinforcing the need for legal clarity.
Kelaa MP Abdullah Shareef expressed frustration over the delay in receiving the Asset Recovery Bill from the Attorney General’s Office, despite urgent requests made as early as April.
The broader context of the debate includes a public commitment by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, who announced in Thimarafushi last month that the Asset Recovery Bill would be submitted and passed into law. He stated that once enacted, government agencies would pursue individuals involved in major corruption and theft, aiming to recover stolen assets and prevent future impunity.