Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), on Saturday, announced investigations into three cases of bribery of candidates contesting in the upcoming parliamentary elections in April.
In a news conference held by Elections Commission (EC), ACC’s Vice President Muaviz Rasheed stated that the commission was receiving complaints that some candidates were not adhering to the rules and regulations of the Elections General Act.
Muaviz emphasized the amendment brought to the Elections General Act in July 2018, declaring that the amendment clearly states the activities carried out by candidates that can be considered illegal.
“While 395 candidates are contesting in the elections, three complaints have been received regarding the violation of the Act”, Muaviz said.
He announced that one of the investigations had concluded, further disclosing that the case did not fall under any circumstances included in the Act as the activities which were reported took place before the individual announced his candidacy.
Additionally, Muaviz revealed that a similar case was currently under investigation, while information was being gathered on another.
Article 4 of the Elections General Act states that gifts and services offered to individuals, organisations, or the public in order to garner support in the elections can be considered bribery.
Muaviz also called upon government authorities to conduct their projects within the boundaries of the constitution. He guaranteed that concerns of the people regarding candidates will be brought to the attention of relevant authorities.
Moreover, Muaviz announced that a special investigative team was established in ACC to halt any illegal activities related to the parliamentary elections. According to Muaviz, details of any concluded investigations will be disclosed to the public.
There are 395 candidates contesting for 87 constituencies in the parliamentary elections to be held on April 7, 2019. Most of the candidates are contesting independently.
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