Majlis Expresses Frustration Over Aasandha’s Lack of Transparency on Unpaid Dues

Members of Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee have voiced their frustration after Aasandha Company declined to reveal details of unpaid dues to other companies, despite a formal request from the Committee.

The Committee had asked for information on unpaid dues to other companies from both Aasandha and the National Social Protection Agency (NSPA). Aasandha, in a written response, stated it was “difficult” to provide specifics regarding unpaid dues to individual companies. However, they indicated they could supply details of unpaid dues divided between the private sector and the public sector.

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During the Committee meeting, Hanimaadhoo MP Abdul Ghafoor Moosa (Gapo) criticised Aasandha’s refusal, insisting the information must be provided as instructed by the Committee. “The information can be provided under confidentiality. It is at our discretion whether we disclose the information or not. They cannot give excuses for not providing it. I propose we obtain the information even if it requires an order,” he asserted.

Parliament’s Deputy Speaker, Dhiggaru MP Ahmed Nazim, echoed this sentiment, stressing that Aasandha is obligated to disclose the requested information. He underscored the necessity of understanding why Aasandha owes substantial amounts to various Maldivian hospitals and a centre established in collaboration with local and foreign hospitals.

Baarah MP Ibrahim Shujau alleged that significant thefts had occurred within Aasandha over the past years, noting that the Finance Minister had identified this sector as needing urgent reform. “There has been talk of influence by medical mafia in this issue. The President believes the public needs to use medications used by Europeans to close the doors to this,” he remarked.

Following these discussions, the Committee resolved to compel Aasandha to disclose the requested information.