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New amendments to guarantee legal powers for commission leaders: AG

Attorney General Ahmed Usham has stated that the new amendments proposed to the Anti-Corruption Commission Act and the Elections Commission Act will ensure that the Presidents and Vice Presidents of these commissions are guaranteed their legally conferred powers.

Speaking at a press conference held at the President's Office, Attorney General Usham observed that the Presidents and Vice Presidents of certain independent institutions are elected after their names are submitted to Parliament for approval. He indicated that the proposed amendments will alter the existing system, which currently requires the commission's President and Vice President to be elected through a voting process among commission members.

Furthermore, Usham pointed out that the current legislation has created challenges for the Presidents and Vice Presidents of the commissions in fulfilling their legally mandated responsibilities. He emphasised the significance of ensuring the operations of independent commissions are similar, stating that this was one of the key reasons for introducing the amendments.

In response to criticism regarding the amendments, Usham clarified that they aim to enhance the operations of independent commissions and to streamline the appointment process for the President and Vice President from among the appointed members of each commission. He highlighted that the previous administration had made attempts to undermine the authority of commission members. However, he reiterated the pledge of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's commitment that the current government will refrain from implementing any amendments that could influence the independence of these commissions.