Gov’t Released Adeeb and Ziyath Against its Zero-Tolerance Policy, Says HRCM

The Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) has raised concerns over the release of former Vice President Ahmed Adeeb and former MMPRC Managing Director Abdullah Ziyath, asserting that this move is inconsistent with the government’s proclaimed zero-tolerance policy. 

The two were granted clemency under the Amnesty and Commutation of Punishment Act by President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, a decision that has faced criticism from legal experts and the public alike.

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According to the HRCM, the release of Adeeb and Ziyath poses a challenge to the government’s anti-corruption efforts, undermining the measures taken to combat such practices. 

The commission further expressed apprehension regarding the outstanding MVR 1 billion from the MMPRC scam, stating that the failure to recover this sum erodes public trust and may embolden potential wrongdoers to repeat such offences.

Additionally, the HRCM called attention to the perceived unfairness in granting amnesty to individuals, regardless of their position, under the Clemence Act. 

They emphasised the need for amendments to ensure a more equitable application of the law, particularly in cases involving high-ranking officials.