Allegations surface that MTSB director’s post was revoked after he appeared in a photo with Sobe

Allegations have surfaced that the government revoked the post of the Maldives Transport Safety Board (MTSB) director for political reasons, after he appeared in a photograph with MDP candidate Abdulla Sodiq (Sobe) during the Hithadhoo North by‑election.

Zuhair, an experienced aviation professional, was appointed Director of the Transport Safety Board on June 15 last year. He previously served as State Minister for Transport under the MDP administration and was selected for the MTSB post through an interview process.

His position was abruptly revoked on Sunday, not terminated, but the entire post itself removed. Zuhair confirmed the development to Sun.

He said the allegation circulating on social media, that the revocation followed a photograph taken with Sobe, was accurate. According to him, there was no legal basis to remove him under existing laws and regulations, and the only way to discard him was by eliminating the position altogether.

“That’s true. Sobe is my relative by law. He is my sister’s husband. Who would I take a picture with if I didn’t take a picture with him,” Zuhair said.

The Maldives Transport Safety Board was established under presidential authority, under Article 116 of the Constitution, to independently investigate road, sea and civil aviation incidents and accidents, and to strengthen transport safety and security.