Parliament Approves Mohamed Shakeel to Fill Vacancy on Elections Commission

The Maldivian Parliament has approved the appointment of Mohamed Shakeel to the Elections Commission of Maldives (ECM), filling a critical vacancy within the constitutional body. Shakeel, who previously served as the Managing Director of the Maldives Hajj Corporation Limited, was endorsed following a review by the Committee on Independent Institutions. The appointment follows a nomination submitted by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. The vacancy was created after the resignation of Mohamed Zahid, who stepped down from his roles as both a member and President of the Commission. Shakeel brings significant prior experience to the role, having served as a member of the Elections Commission from December 2014 to May 2018, and previously as the Commission's Director General starting in September 2013. During his interview with the parliamentary committee, Shakeel emphasized his commitment to impartiality and independence. Addressing his previous departure from the Commission, Shakeel stated that he had resigned in the past because he felt the prevailing environment hindered his ability to perform his duties independently. He assured lawmakers that, if appointed, he would prioritize constructive dialogue and ensure all political parties have a platform to raise concerns with the Commission. With Shakeel's confirmation, the Elections Commission returns to its full complement of five members, joining Vice President Abdul Rahman Salah Rasheed, Hassan Zakariyya, Abdul Haseeb Ismail, and Rif'ath Abdulla. Despite the commission reaching full membership, the position of President of the Elections Commission remains vacant. According to the law, the President of the Maldives may now appoint a Commission President from among the current members, a decision that will also require parliamentary approval.