Judge Faisal resigned as ACC investigates corruption, laundering

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has confirmed it is investigating corruption and money laundering allegations against a High Court judge, widely understood to be Judge Mohamed Faisal, who resigned from the bench on Sunday.  

While the ACC did not publicly name the judge, Sun has learned that Faisal is the subject of the investigation.  

Faisal’s resignation comes amid a broader disciplinary inquiry by the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), which is currently investigating five High Court judges, including some of the court’s most senior members.  

In a statement issued Friday, the JSC said it is reviewing ethical complaints submitted against judges of a specific court, but emphasized that no disciplinary action would be taken until all relevant information has been verified. The commission denied claims of bias or disproportionate scrutiny based on court affiliation.  

Judge Faisal was still presiding over a terrorism case on Sunday afternoon, shortly before his resignation was announced.  

He had also stepped down as Chief Judge of the High Court earlier last week.  

Faisal was first appointed to the High Court on July 24, 2018, near the end of former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom’s administration. He holds a degree in Shariah and Law from Kulliyat-e-Dirasat-e-Islamiyya and previously served as a member and vice-president of the JSC, representing the president’s seat during Yameen’s tenure.  

The High Court acknowledged Faisal’s resignation in a public statement, thanking him for his service. No reason was provided for his departure.  

His exit follows a series of high-profile changes within the judiciary this year, including the suspension and removal of several Supreme Court justices.