License issuance without practical exam prompts halt of service in Gadhdhoo

The issuance of land and sea transport licenses has been suspended in GDh. Gadhdhoo on Monday following allegations that numerous licenses were issued without the mandatory practical examinations.

In a statement, the Gadhdhoo Council said the services were suspended due to negligence by responsible parties and a series of unlawful activities allegedly carried out for significant financial gain. The Council added that it had received several complaints regarding the licensing process since the fifth-term councilors assumed office.

According to the statement, the unauthorized issuance of licenses came to light after Council President Ilham Rasheed launched an inquiry based on credible information received on September 6th. The investigation indicated that the activities were carried out with the involvement of certain members of the fourth-term Council.

"Due to these circumstances, civil service employees were coerced into performing various tasks, resulting in the employees bearing the brunt of the consequences," the Council's statement read.

The statement also said that two senior officials from the relevant ministry visited Gadhdhoo to conduct a monitoring exercise who identified multiple violations of laws and regulations in the licensing process. According to the Council, more than 1,600 licenses were issued in Gadhdhoo over the past year, averaging approximately 133 licenses per month, a figure comparable to the number issued in the capital, Malé. However, examiners involved in the process reported that fewer than three individuals actually participated in practical tests each week.

The Gadhdhoo Council is currently holding discussions with relevant government authorities to address the irregularities and resume licensing services. However, no specific date has yet been announced for the resumption of the services.