Acquiring wealth through illegitimate means has now become a crime after President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih earlier today ratified the fourth amendment to the Penal Code of Maldives.
The new amendment to the Penal Code introduces offenses such as, acquiring wealth through illegitimate means, misusing state funds or assets, acting in a manner that gives a direct disadvantage to the state, and asserting undue influence on businesses.
The new amendment also criminalizes offering bribes and details the provisions whereby a person may be held liable for this offense.
As per the amendment, offering bribes is classified as a class three felony.
Details for prosecution under these offenses are also included in the amendment.
Once the new amendment to the Penal Code is gazetted, the Prevention and Prohibition of Corruption Act (Act no: 2/2000) will be nullified.
Parliament passed the fourth amendment to the Penal Code on Monday, April 19, 2021, at the 30th sitting of the first session for this year.
Upon ratification, the amendment has now been published in the Government Gazette.
