Prosecutor General (PG) Hussain Shameem is set to appear before the Judiciary Committee to address a motion seeking his removal from office.

The committee unanimously approved the decision today, granting Shameem the opportunity to defend himself against the allegations after giving him a five day notice. 

The motion was brought forward by Hulhudhoo MP Mohamed Shahid of the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) on Tuesday.

Shahid contends that Shameem has failed to maintain the independence required of his position, accusing him of actions that allegedly contravene Article 228 of the Constitution, which mandates the impartiality and independence of the Prosecutor General.

The specific allegations against Shameem include:

• The filing of sexual assault charges against former Tourism Minister Ali Waheed.

• Allowing former Youth Minister Ahmed Mahloof to remain in office despite pending charges.

• Failing to appeal the Safari rape case, allegedly due to connections with the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP).

• Withdrawing human trafficking charges against former Milandhoo MP Ali Riza.

• Dismissing 77 cases related to liquor offenses.

• Withdrawing 13 cases of same-sex relationships.

• Deciding not to pursue charges in the ventilator procurement scandal.

• Allegations of discrimination against employees within the Prosecutor General’s Office.

Shameem, who was appointed as Prosecutor General in December 2019, is nearing the end of his term, which is set to expire this December.