A new bill aimed at amending laws governing the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) and the Election Commission (EC) has been opened for public comments.

The proposed amendments, which are currently under review by the Parliamentary Committee on Independent Institutions, seek to provide direct powers to the President and Vice President of both commissions.

The bill, introduced by Felidhoo MP Adam Zahir for the ACC and Kela MP Abdulla Shareef for the EC, seeks to streamline the appointment process for the president and vice-president of these commissions, ensuring uniformity in the procedure. Under the proposed amendments, the President would have the authority to appoint the president and vice-president of both commissions from among the commission members, subject to parliamentary approval. The bill also includes provisions regarding the resignation process and the appointment of a successor within 72 hours in case of vacancy.

The public is invited to submit their feedback on the proposed amendments by October 12, either by mail to the Public Accounts Committee or in writing at the Parliament house.