Broadcom dismisses IT officer after server probe

The Maldives Broadcasting Commission has dismissed its IT Officer Ahmed Fazeel following an investigation into a server issue that occurred in May.

Commission Chairperson Safa Taufiq confirmed to Atoll Times on Thursday that Fazeel was officially removed from his post on Monday. The dismissal followed a seven-day suspension imposed during an investigation into a technical issue with the commission’s server.

The server problem arose after staff of the commission staged a walkout in protest over the removal of Secretary General (SG) Mariyam Zeeniya. The incident coincided with the protest, prompting an internal inquiry into the matter.

According to Safa, the decision to dismiss Fazeel was made after it was determined that the damage to the server was deliberate. She stated that police have also been asked to investigate the matter.

“The Employment Act allows for termination without notice if an employee's continued presence poses a risk of further harm to the institution,” Safa said. She added that the commission acted in accordance with the law after assessing the severity of the incident.

Fazeel was not given notice prior to his dismissal. The commission did not disclose the specific nature or extent of the damage caused.

In addition to Fazeel’s dismissal, other employees have reportedly faced disciplinary action related to the recent internal disputes at the Broadcasting Commission. These include suspensions and dismissals following complaints raised by employees against commission members.

The dismissal of former Secretary General Mariyam Zeeniya, who was placed on suspension and later terminated on 25 May, is currently under review by the Employment Tribunal.

Fazeel had also submitted a complaint to the National Integrity Commission (NIC) after his suspension. The commission has not commented publicly on the status of the NIC investigation.