Azaan’s committee removal not politically motivated, Falaah says
When asked whether disciplinary action would be taken against Azaan, Falaah said no action had been taken yet.
PNC Parliamentary Group Leader Ibrahim Falaah said on Monday that Hithadhoo Central MP Ahmed Azaan’s removal from two key parliamentary committees was not politically motivated.
Azaan was removed from the Finance Committee and the Security Services Committee (241), with Henveiru North MP Ahmed Aifan and Villimale MP Mohamed Ismail appointed as replacements, respectively. Azaan was reassigned to the Petitions Committee and the Privileges Committee.
The decision followed Azaan’s refusal to support amendments to the Courts Act aimed at removing two Supreme Court judges. However, Falaah denied that his reassignment was linked to his stance on the bill.
"It was not done for any political purpose. It was just part of the normal routine of changing committees," Falaah said when asked about the matter.
Falaah had previously stated that he would explain why some MPs were absent during the vote on the Courts Act amendment. Azaan was present in parliament that day but left before the vote took place. He later stated that he did not participate as he believed the bill was unconstitutional.
When asked whether disciplinary action would be taken against Azaan for violating the three-line whip, Falaah said no action had been taken yet and that the matter would be reviewed.
Azaan was also removed from the PNC parliamentary group’s official WhatsApp group for violating the whip-line. Reports suggest he may face expulsion from the party, which could result in the loss of his parliamentary seat.
