President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has reiterated his commitment to upholding the independence of state powers, following criticism over a proposed bill that would grant the President authority to appoint the heads of the Elections Commission (EC) and the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC). In a post on X, he assured the public that he has never influenced any state power, independent institution, or elected official, and pledged to continue this practice in the future.
President Muizzu emphasized that his administration would not seek to interfere with independent bodies but would instead focus on proposing legislative amendments to ensure that these institutions operate fairly and equitably. “The government will propose amendments to laws and regulations as necessary to shape a fair and equitable system,” he wrote, underlining his intent to support independent functioning without direct interference.
The President's statement comes in response to criticism from the opposition regarding a proposed legislative amendment that would give the President the authority to appoint the presidents and vice-presidents of the EC and ACC. The opposition has expressed concerns that the amendment could undermine the independence of these institutions, which play a critical role in ensuring democratic processes and combating corruption.
Attorney General Ibrahim Riffath has also defended the proposed amendments, arguing that the appointment process for members and leaders of these commissions varies under current laws and should be standardized for consistency. Riffath pointed out that similar changes were implemented during the previous administration led by the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP).
President Muizzu emphasized that his administration would not seek to interfere with independent bodies but would instead focus on proposing legislative amendments to ensure that these institutions operate fairly and equitably. “The government will propose amendments to laws and regulations as necessary to shape a fair and equitable system,” he wrote, underlining his intent to support independent functioning without direct interference.
The President's statement comes in response to criticism from the opposition regarding a proposed legislative amendment that would give the President the authority to appoint the presidents and vice-presidents of the EC and ACC. The opposition has expressed concerns that the amendment could undermine the independence of these institutions, which play a critical role in ensuring democratic processes and combating corruption.
Attorney General Ibrahim Riffath has also defended the proposed amendments, arguing that the appointment process for members and leaders of these commissions varies under current laws and should be standardized for consistency. Riffath pointed out that similar changes were implemented during the previous administration led by the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP).
