Minister of Sports, Fitness, and Recreation Abdulla Rafiu has emphasised that the government will not interfere in the elections of sports associations, but noted that no association is above the laws of the Maldives. He made the statement in response to inquiries during a press conference held at the President's Office.
Speaking at the press conference, Minister Rafiu stressed that no political influence would be exerted on association elections and that these organisations should operate as independent entities. He, however, clarified that if an association engages in illegal activity, the Sports Commission, which oversees these associations, will step in.
Additionally, Minister Rafiu also highlighted that all associations must adhere to the laws and regulations of the nation. He pointed out that some associations face legal challenges due to contradictions in their governing regulations, and that addressing these inconsistencies would provide long-term solutions. Recently, several sports associations in the Maldives have faced election-related issues, with elections being delayed and corruption cases under investigation.
Meanwhile, Commissioner of Sports Mohamed Tholal said that the current government has not used any associations for political gain. He also attributed the recent issues within sports associations to unresolved matters that have been ignored for some time, leading to current actions being taken to ensure compliance with regulations.
Additionally, Tholal said that the issues have surfaced due to conflicts between the Sports Act of the Maldives and the regulations of individual associations. He said that requests for amendments have already been submitted to the National Assembly for Sports, and he expects regulatory changes soon. The Maldives has yet to establish a sports arbitration body under the Sports Act, despite the increasing number of disputes within sports associations.