Yameen questions allowance granted to ex-police chief
Yameen questioned why the government had extended the benefits of an honorary retirement to someone who had resigned on his own.
Former President Abdulla Yameen has questioned the government’s decision to provide an allowance to former Commissioner of Police Ali Shujau following his resignation.
Shujau resigned on the 26th of last month amid public criticism over the police investigation into the case of 21-year-old Hawwa Yumnu Rasheed, who was found fallen from a building. The reason for his resignation has not been publicly disclosed.
Speaking at a gathering Thursday evening, Yameen stated that the allowance granted to Shujau appeared to be an attempt to prevent him from speaking out. He said the Police Act does not provide for an allowance to individuals who resign from their position.
“Retirement with honour is different,” Yameen said. “They are talking about [Shujau] getting benefits given to someone who retires with honour. But according to reports, Shujau resigned. Once he resigns, that should be the end. He is not entitled to any such benefits.”
Yameen questioned why the government had extended the benefits of an honorary retirement to someone who had resigned on his own. He also raised concerns about what information Shujau may have had and whether the allowance was meant to silence him.
Following Shujau’s resignation, Deputy Commissioner Farhad Fikry was initially appointed to the role. However, the post was later temporarily assigned to Deputy Commissioner Ismail Naveen.
Shujau’s resignation had been one of the demands made by protesters who had taken to the streets in support of Yumnu Rasheed. Demonstrators also called for the resignation of Minister of Home Affairs Ali Ihusan and Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Mohamed Ameen.
