The government must explain "situation" at STELCO: Ghafoor

The opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has demanded that the government provide a clear explanation regarding the recent situation at State Electric Company (STELCO). 

This follows the sudden dismissal of Managing Director Ahmed Shamah Rasheed, the removal of Procurement Head Azhad Rameez from his duties, and the circulation of a leaked audio clip. 

During a press briefing today, MDP’s interim chairperson and Hanimaadhoo MP, Abdul Ghafoor Moosa (Gapo), emphasized that the government must verify the authenticity of the leaked audio and disclose the truth to the public. The audio in question, which surfaced on social media, allegedly features a voice, believed to be Shamah’s, boasting about engaging in corrupt practices within the company.

"I am saying the government must be held accountable for these matters. They must conduct a verification of this audio and reveal to the people whether it is true or false," Ghafoor stated. 

He further questioned the lack of transparency surrounding the leadership changes, asking, "Why was the MD dismissed? The public needs clarity on the extent of corruption that has taken place within STELCO." 

In response to the circulating recording, Shamah has denied that the voice belongs to him, asserting that the audio is a fabrication intended to frame him.

Ghafoor also linked the need for transparency to broader public concerns, such as the rising cost of electricity bills. He criticized the government's previous explanations that attributed high bills to warm weather rather than internal management issues or increased appliance usage. Ghafoor repeatedly stressed that a government is elected to be accountable to its citizens. 

Meanwhile, the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) confirmed today that it has launched an investigation into corruption allegations involving Shamah, though it did not specify the source of the complaint. 

While the Privatization and Corporatization Board (PCB) officially announced Shamah's dismissal yesterday, it has yet to provide a formal reason for the decision.