Systemic corruption can topple governments, will not allow it: President

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has reaffirmed the Maldives’ commitment to integrity, transparency and accountability in shaping the country’s future.

In a message to mark International Anti-Corruption Day, he described the Maldives’ accession to the UN Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) in 2007 as a solemn obligation, saying the country remained determined to uphold its principles with “transparency and resolve”.

President Muizzu said systemic corruption threatened the rule of law, obstructed sustainable development, weakened democratic governance and undermined citizens’ fundamental rights. He said the administration maintained zero tolerance for corruption and was committed to eliminating the threat.

He highlighted several initiatives underway, including the Maldives 2.0 digital transformation programme, aimed at modernizing public services, reducing bureaucratic inefficiencies and ensuring transparency across government transactions.

He also pointed to the Anti-Corruption Commission’s work on asset recovery, including a model law and amendments to key legislation such as the Penal Code. Preventive measures, he added, include a 20-year National Development Plan aligned with the National Anti-Corruption Plan, the “Himmi” corruption risk self-assessment toolkit for public bodies and state-owned enterprises, and the establishment of an Anti-Corruption Academy to train professionals across the country.

The president acknowledged the role of civil society organizations and UNCAC review mechanisms in strengthening social accountability and international cooperation.

However, he stressed that government action alone was not enough, saying efforts to tackle corruption required the participation of citizens and the private sector. He added that the country’s youth gave him confidence in the future being built.

President Muizzu ended his message by stressing the shared responsibility to speak out, remain vigilant and uphold honesty and transparency. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to building a country where integrity can flourish, democratic governance is strengthened, the rule of law prevails and the justice system remains fair and impartial.

International Anti-Corruption Day is observed annually on 9 December, marking the UN General Assembly’s adoption of UNCAC in 2003.