Shakeel resigns as Hajj Corporation MD following EC approval

Mohamed Shakeel has resigned as Managing Director of the Maldives Hajj Corporation after Parliament approved his appointment as a member of the Elections Commission.

The People's Majlis endorsed Shakeel's appointment on Tuesday, with 51 lawmakers voting in favour of his nomination. Seven members of the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) voted against the appointment.

In a post on X on Wednesday, the Privatization and Corporatization Board confirmed that it had accepted Shakeel's resignation from both the position of Managing Director and the Board of Directors of the Maldives Hajj Corporation.

The Maldives Hajj Corporation also issued a statement acknowledging Shakeel's service to the company.

According to the corporation, several government policies relating to Hajj and Umrah services were implemented during his tenure. The company also said efforts were made to strengthen staff training and organisational development.

Shakeel was nominated to the Elections Commission by President Mohamed Muizzu to fill a vacancy created by the resignation of former Elections Commission President Mohamed Zahid in May.

Prior to his nomination, Shakeel served as Registrar of the ruling People's National Congress (PNC). He has also held positions within the party, including membership of its senate and election committee.

His nomination attracted public debate due to his previous involvement in party politics and his appointment to an independent constitutional body.

With parliamentary approval now secured and his resignation accepted, Shakeel is set to assume his role at the Elections Commission.