Faris questioned by police over bribery

Dhiggaru MP Ahmed Faris Maumoon was summoned to police headquarters this Monday morning for questioning regarding a bribery allegation against him.

Faris is suspected of attempting to influence outcome of the no-confidence vote of Speaker of People’s Majlis Abdulla Maseeh taken on March 27 through bribery.

Speaking to press after questioning at police headquarters this Monday morning, Faris said he was confident the police did not have any evidence to support the bribery allegation.

He also said he doubted the procedural integrity of the investigation.

Faris said he asked the police to prove the integrity of their investigation, and to release any credible evidence or information they may have to support the allegation.

He said the police failed to honor either of his requests.

Faris has already been questioned by police in a separate case – which has now been sent to Prosecutor General’s Office.

Faris – the son of former Maldivian President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom – is a key member of the opposition coalition.

Another key opposition leader, Leader of Jumhoory Party (JP) and Maamingili MP Qasim Ibrahim is currently under police custody, while Deputy Leader of JP and Kinbidhoo MP Abdulla Riyaz is in the middle of a criminal trial.