Maldives investigation over Kosovo recognition awaits key evidence
A Maldives parliamentary committee is awaiting two "crucial" pieces of evidence from President Mohamed Nasheed in order to pursue its investigation into allegations of a US$2 million bribe allegedly accepted by senior officials in the government to recognise Kosovo independence.
(KosovoCompromise Staff) Thursday, April 09, 2009
According to one member of the committee, MP Abdulla Yamin, leader of the opposition party People's Alliance, the parliamentary committee was concerned with whether the country's national integrity and sovereignty had been compromised.
"We are trying to find out to what extent commercial diplomacy has been employed," said Yamin. "As soon as we get a reply, we will be able to proceed."
The president is currently on a visit to the UK.
Parliament launched the investigation on 16 March after the leader of a Maldivian opposition party, the Islamic Democratic Party (IDP), alleged the hefty bribe had been accepted from opposition leader Behgjet Pacolli of the New Kosovo Alliance (AKR).
Foreign minister Dr Ahmed Shaheed, one of those who allegedly accepted the bribe, was quizzed by the committee last month.
He has denied the allegations, adding that recognition of Kosovan independence was decided upon on the advice of the UK and the USA, two of the Maldives' allies, to ensure stability in Eastern Europe.
Committee members include parliamentary speaker Mohamed Shihab, Noonu atoll MP Abdullah Yamin, Meemu atoll MP Ahmed Nazim and Laamu atoll MP Iliyas Ibrahim.
The committee has said it will reveal its findings at the end of its investigation.
