President submits names for Elections Commission
The commission is unable to convene or make decisions until additional members are appointed.
Two names have been submitted to parliament for appointment to the vacant positions on the Elections Commission (EC).
The nominations follow the removal of former Vice Chairperson Ali Nashath and Member Mohamed Asif, whose dismissal was approved by parliament on November 25. Both individuals were accused of serious misconduct.
The nominees, prioritised by President Mohamed Muizzu, are:
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1-
Mohamed Zahid
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2-
Abdul Rahman Solah Rasheed
The independent institutions committee of parliament will interview the candidates, adhering to the president's order of priority.
The Elections Commission’s operations have been impacted due to the vacancies. With the expiration of Chairman Ahmed Fuad Thaufeeq’s term and the removal of two members, the five-member commission currently has only two members.
Article 175 of the constitution stipulates that:
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Commission meetings require a quorum of more than two-thirds of its members, meaning at least three members must be present.
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Decisions must be made by a majority of members present and voting.
As a result, the commission is unable to convene or make decisions until additional members are appointed.
On December 5, parliament approved the appointment of Abdul Haseeb Ismail to replace Fuad. However, he has yet to assume office.
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