NSPA Denies Corruption Allegations Over Office Building Rental Deal

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The National Social Protection Agency (NSPA) has rejected accusations of corruption after being accused of renting office space through the Maldives Media House, which operates MMTV, a station linked to President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.

In a statement released on Friday, the NSPA defended its decision to rent the office building, asserting that the transaction was carried out “in accordance with the existing procedure.” According to the agency, the deal for acquiring the new office space was managed between the Ministry of Finance and the NSPA, following proper rules and regulations. The agency emphasized that it was not involved in any transaction with a third party, and stated that all relevant information could be found on the Ministry of Finance’s platforms.

The NSPA further explained that it was in the process of recruiting staff for the agency and assigning duties in line with the regulations.

The controversy stems from allegations that the NSPA had agreed to pay more than MVR 500,000 per month from the state budget for the operation of MMTV. Despite these accusations, NSPA CEO Heena Waleed did not respond to any calls or messages seeking comment.

In response to the media claims, NSPA has called on the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) to investigate the allegations. The agency also threatened legal action against media outlets that spread what it called “false news.”

Details surrounding the deal suggest that the NSPA had requested a 12,000-square-foot office space to relocate, with the Maldives Media House being the only entity to submit a proposal. Sources have confirmed that four floors of the 15-storey building located in Mahchangolhi Seeraazeege were leased to MMTV. While the total space of the building amounts to 43,650 square feet, 8,730 square feet, or two floors, were rented to the NSPA. The remaining 12,000 square feet required by the NSPA would be available across three floors.

The lease agreement stipulates a monthly rent of MVR 580,000, amounting to MVR 34.8 million over the next five years. Despite NSPA’s claims that the agreement does not involve any third parties, the announcement regarding the tender was made at the agency’s request.

The accusations surrounding this rental deal have raised concerns, particularly given the connection between the Maldives Media House, which operates MMTV, and the administration of President Muizzu. The situation has drawn attention to potential conflicts of interest and the transparency of government transactions.