Homeland Security and Technology Minister Ali Ihsan has voiced his support for President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s proposed amendment to the Penal Code, designed to tackle entrenched corruption in government. His remarks followed the President’s announcement of a legislative initiative aimed at overcoming legal barriers to investigating and prosecuting corruption within state institutions.

President Dr Muizzu’s amendment, expected to be presented in Parliament next week, seeks to enable thorough investigations into cases of disproportionate asset accumulation and remove legal obstacles that currently impede anti-corruption efforts. Minister Ihsan stressed that the amendment is essential for closing loopholes that have long allowed individuals to evade accountability.

"The anti-corruption clauses in our current code are insufficient for effective prosecution," Ihsan stated.

He added that under the existing structure, it’s challenging to hold individuals accountable, even when charges are filed.

The amendment targets Section 515 of the Penal Code, which deals with the offense of accumulating undue wealth. By revising this provision, the government aims to streamline the investigation and prosecution processes, reinforcing its commitment to transparency and combating corruption at all levels of government.