ICOM to Shift Services Online Amid Building Deterioration
The ICOM office in its current state, offering an unhealthy working environment for employees. | Photo credit: Information Commissioner’s Office Maldives
The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICOM) will begin offering services online starting tomorrow due to the deteriorating condition of its current premises.
In a statement issued today, the commission said the building housing its office no longer provides a viable working environment, prompting the transition to online operations. Members of the public seeking assistance or clarification may contact the office on 3010990.
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Announcement pic.twitter.com/4IKiNyMUwm— Information Commissioner's Office – Maldives (@ICOMaldives) May 19, 2025
Established under the Right to Information (RTI) Act, ICOM has been operating from G. Biloorijehige since 2015. However, its 2024 annual report highlighted long-standing concerns over the building’s suitability, stating that it does not provide a healthy environment for employees. It noted that work had been split into two shifts during official hours due to limited access to essential facilities such as the toilet and tea room.
According to the report, the office had moved to Biloorijehige following extensive renovations, but issues emerged soon after, including persistent water leakage and foaming in several parts of the bathroom and break room. Despite multiple repair efforts, the problems reportedly resurfaced within two to three months.
The situation has since worsened, with the report stating that water has now infiltrated the office’s only meeting room, leading to the deterioration of the western wall and carpet. As a result, the room has become difficult to use for hearings and meetings due to an unpleasant odour.
In response to the ongoing challenges, the Ministry of Finance granted permission in October to operate a new office building. The proposed relocation bid, valued at over MVR 7.6 million, was submitted to the ministry on 19 November 2024 for a decision in line with Finance Rules. While the tender board was expected to announce the new space after clarifying the necessary details, ICOM noted in March that no such announcement had been made by the time its 2024 annual report was finalised.
