ACC Warns Corruption Is Undermining PSIP Projects In Maldives

The President of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), Adam Shamil, has warned that corruption is undermining Public Sector Investment Programme (PSIP) projects in the Maldives.

Speaking at the 11th Conference of States Parties to the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC), Shamil said combating corruption is a critical priority for small island nations. He outlined the Maldives’ ongoing anti-corruption efforts, noting that an asset recovery bill has been submitted to parliament to strengthen the legal framework for recovering state losses.

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Shamil said the national anti-corruption strategy has been aligned with the country’s long-term development agenda and the government’s digital transformation vision, Maldives 2.0. He also highlighted the Saudi–Maldives International Forum on Integrity and noted that high-level guidelines have been prepared ahead of the upcoming OIC Ministerial Meeting to strengthen integrity in the tourism sector.

Acknowledging challenges in the ACC’s administrative processes, Shamil said the commission has introduced technology-driven solutions to improve efficiency and accountability. These include Kaathibu, an artificial intelligence-based transcription system, and Libeege, an automated case update platform designed to speed up investigations.

He cautioned that emerging technologies such as cryptocurrency and artificial intelligence are increasingly being misused to conceal corruption, stressing the need for advanced technological solutions tailored to the needs of small island states. He also called for greater international cooperation to bridge the digital divide by sharing forensic and investigative innovations with vulnerable countries.

Marking International Anti-Corruption Day, Shamil revealed that the ACC has identified more than MVR 1.61 billion for recovery from various state agencies in cases concluded since 2009, with relevant authorities instructed to take action to recover the funds.

He added that the ACC has expanded its work through social audit programmes, the establishment of the Maldives National Anti-Corruption Academy, and the creation of an independent anti-corruption trust fund in 2023.