The Muizzu government’s claim of “zero tolerance for corruption” is under intense scrutiny as recent actions reveal what critics describe as selective accountability. While certain cases of alleged misconduct are promptly addressed, others involving close allies of the administration appear to be ignored.
The suspension of Housing Development Corporation (HDC) Managing Director Ibrahim Fazul Rasheed and board members—excluding its chairman, Ahmed Naasif—over accusations of fraudulent land allocations valued at MVR 450 million under the “Binveriya” housing scheme has been highlighted as a move toward transparency. However, critics have questioned the timing, pointing out that warnings about irregularities at HDC surfaced months ago, yet action was only taken after public pressure mounted.
Meanwhile, Presidential Spokesperson Heena Waleed, who also serves as head of the National Social Protection Agency (NSPA), remains in her position despite significant controversy surrounding the agency’s office lease from Maldives Media House Pvt Ltd, a company linked to associates of President Muizzu. The lease, valued at MVR 34.8 million over five years, was further mired in allegations of impropriety after an additional MVR 23 million was spent on “interior works” for the office, which reportedly benefited MM TV—a channel allegedly created to promote President Muizzu.
The public has strongly criticised the deal, viewing it as an example of government funds being misused to indirectly support a pro-government media outlet. The NSPA has yet to occupy the rented office, amplifying suspicions of mismanagement. Additionally, claims that political appointees are receiving salaries as MM TV employees have further eroded trust in the administration’s commitment to financial accountability.
Opposition leaders have condemned what they describe as double standards, calling for an independent investigation into both the HDC and NSPA controversies and demanding the immediate dismissal of Fazul and Heena.
Public concern has been further heightened by a recent fire that destroyed critical documents in three ministries, including the Ministry of Housing. Though no injuries were reported, the timing of the incident has raised suspicions of a potential cover-up linked to the HDC scandal.
Observers argue that while Fazul’s suspension is a step in the right direction, the government’s handling of these issues reveals a troubling pattern of selective enforcement. Many fear that investigative bodies, such as the police and the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), may focus more on punishing whistleblowers than holding high-profile offenders accountable.