Shamil: ACC investigations may be expedited or delayed based on political sensitivity

Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC)’s president Adam Shamil, on Monday, stated that the commission may expedite or delay certain cases depending on their political sensitivity.

During a meeting with the Parliament’s Independent Institutions Committee, Shamil responded to a question from ruling PNC’s Dhidhdhoo MP Abdul Latheef Mohamed regarding the commission’s independence. Shamil said that although the ACC’s independence is often discussed in a political context, the commission remains free from political influence.

"We operate in strict accordance with the laws, regulations, and the policies and the standards established within the criminal justice system," Shamil said.

While acknowledging and respecting differing political views, Shamil stressed that the ACC conducts its investigations while ensuring that all rights guaranteed under the criminal justice system are upheld, with robust mechanisms in place to protect those rights. He explained that cases are prioritized and investigated based on a weighted scoring system.

"We do take political sensitivity into account; we may delay certain matters or expedite others, particularly to avoid any perception of influence during election periods," Shamil remarked.

He reiterated that the ACC continues to operate as an independent institution in accordance with the Constitution, relevant laws, and regulations.

Shamil further explained that while some preliminary investigations may take up to six months, the commission has managed to fast-track cases deemed to be of high priority. Addressing public concerns over delays in resolving cases, he said new systems were introduced last year to expedite long-pending investigations. He added that the investigative framework had been restructured to enable faster resolution of minor corruption cases based on their nature.

The ACC has frequently faced public criticism over perceived delays and alleged failures to investigate high-profile corruption cases. While successive administrations have pledged to safeguard the commission’s independence and address systemic corruption before coming to power, public sentiment indicates that these objectives have yet to be fully achieved.