Allegations against independent commissions should not be baseless – Saleem

Ahmed Saleem, President of the Human Rights Commission of the Maldives has said that the rules of procedure of the Commission is a very thorough document and has called on the members of the public to refrain from spreading baseless allegations against independent commissions.

Saleem made the comments in an interview to Dhi TV.

Saleem also said that the Commission was the first independent commission in the country and guidelines and institutional framework is in the Commission now. He also added that its rules of procedure and other documentation have been referred in preparing such documents for other independent commissions as well.

Speaking on corruption, Saleem added that corruption would have a direct impact on human rights and corruption charges shall be investigated. However, he said that such investigations shall be within the civil liberties as set out in the chapter two of the constitution. Saleem also noted that all corruption charges, regardless of political position should also be investigated.

Saleem also concurred that the government might not approve or support the conclusions and findings by the Commission, but assured that the Commission has been collaborating with government. He also noted that any issue with the Commission by the government or any other party should be brought to the Committee’s attention.

He also said that it is a duty of his Commission to make sure that human rights are respected and realized in the Maldives.