MDP submits petition to remove Minister Ihusan amid multiple allegations

The opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has submitted a petition to parliament calling for the removal of Homeland Security and Technology Minister Ali Ihusan, citing multiple accusations against him.

The petition, signed by 12 MDP members, claims that Ihusan has violated the Constitution in several ways since taking office just over a year ago.

Five main issues were highlighted including:

1. A Maldivian company had initially installed the Expat system for use by the Maldives Immigration to manage foreign workers database. However, the system was halted and transferred to the blacklisted Malaysian company Bestinet. The agreement also stipulated an annual payment of MVR 460 million.

2. Alleged political interference in police investigations and obstruction of criminal cases involving government officials, as well as repeated interference with police duties.

3. The misuse of Department of National Registration (DNR) database to extract personal information from individuals, who were then registered with the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) without their knowledge.

4. Invalid forms submitted to the Elections Commission, containing information only accessible via the DNR database, which is overseen by Ihusan.

5. MDP’s complaint further alleges that Ihusan played an active role in adding members to the PNC and that the submission of invalid forms was carried out with DNR resources and personnel under Ihusan's direct supervision.

Given Ihusan’s responsibility for the police, DNR, Immigration, and the Communications Authority, the petition argues that his actions may obstruct criminal investigations and constitute criminal offenses. The petition states that his continued tenure as minister could violate citizens’ rights and undermine the security and safety of Maldives.

As a result, MDP has called for Ihusan’s removal from office.

However, while the MDP has filed for his removal, it lacks the parliamentary numbers to secure a no-confidence vote, as the ruling PNC holds a majority in parliament.