Deputy Speaker of Parliament and Dhiggaru MP Ahmed Nazim has taken a strong stance against corruption, stating that individuals involved in theft and fraud should no longer be allowed to hold government positions.

His remarks were made in response to a recent audit report that revealed significant financial irregularities involving Fuel Supply Maldives (FSM) and Maldives Ports Limited (MPL). The report detailed oil fraud amounting to MVR 28.3 million and raised concerns about corruption in the construction of three towers in Hulhumalé Phase II under the Hiyaa project.

The Parliament's Public Accounts Committee is currently reviewing the issues highlighted in the report. However, the committee’s Chairman, Maamigili MP Qasim Ibrahim, expressed frustration over the limited power of Parliament to enforce accountability. He explained that while the committee can question those implicated and verify the findings of audit reports, taking concrete action remains a challenge. Qasim remarked that even though violations of the Public Finance Act and associated rules are evident, Parliament’s role is largely confined to forwarding findings without the authority to implement further measures.

Nazim, in response to Qasim's remarks, argued that more decisive action is necessary. He emphasised the need for legislative reforms to prevent individuals involved in corruption from continuing in public office.

Nazim stated that while it may not always be possible to bring these individuals before a judge, Parliament should at least ensure that they are permanently barred from state positions. He called for amendments to finance laws and regulations to tackle corruption more effectively.