ACC: There are credible reasons why certain projects must be halted

Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) says it has credible reasons for ordering halts on certain government projects in response to corruption complaints filed with the watchdog, and that the reasons will be discussed in detail with relevant State institutions.

The statement follows recent remarks by President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, who, during a campaign stop in H. Dh. Vaikaradhoo on Tuesday, voiced concern over lengthy ACC investigations on government projects awarded without open bidding processes resulting in delays in the government’s developmental plans.

ACC president Mariyam Shauna told Sun on Thursday that even the President had the right to express his personal opinions regarding subjects. Shauna said she respected the President’s opinion and did not wish to make a significant statement in ACC’s defense in response to his remarks.

She, however, said that the ACC had credible reasons for ordering halts on certain government projects, and would hold discussions regarding the reasons with the President’s Office.

“If delays [in projects] are evident, we too have our reasons. We will discuss this with the President’s Office,” she said.

President Solih, despite expressing concern over lengthy ACC investigations resulting in delays in his government’s developmental projects, conceded that investigations into corruption allegations were necessary and said that ACC was right in execution of its responsibility as the local corruption watchdog.