Mariyam Waheeda: Evident there’s no place for educated free-thinkers

Popular presenter and nominee for Maldives Broadcasting Commission (BroadCom), who received highest percentage of marks during evaluation by Committee for Independent Institutions, Mariyam Waheeda (Mary) has said that it was evident from the result of vote by People’s Majlis members on Monday, that there was no opportunity for educated free-thinkers.

Majlis members on Monday voted for six individuals endorsed by President Abdulla Yameen – two of whom scored below 75 percent during committee evaluation process for BroadCom.

Mariyam Waheeda’s name had been at the bottom of the list of 23 names nominated by President Yameen. However, she had scored highest during committee evaluation, and was the first name called for vote.

She was rejected after only 22 members had voted for her, while 46 members against her, and three members remained neutral.

Mariyam has scored 81.3 percent marks based on her educational qualification, training, experience, capability and integrity.

She spoke to “Sun” regarding the Majlis vote and said that it was evident by the vote result that there was no place for educated free-thinkers who worked with transparency and fairness.

She said that it wasn’t what she hoped for, and that it spelled disaster for the future.

Mariyam said that she wasn’t demotivated by the vote result. And would remain steadfast in serving the country.

“I was very happy to score the highest marks. I was very hopeful at that time as there were members from both political parties in the committee. But now I see that there’s no place for educated free-thinkers,” said Mariyam.

People approved by Majlis for BroadCom:

1. Mohamed Shaheeb, H. Reethigasdhoshuge

2. Zeena Zahir, G. A. Gadhdhoo, Athireege

3. Aminath Saharath Izzath, G. Gofi

4. Fathimath Zaina, K. Dhiffushi, Huvandhumaage

5. Ismail Sofwan, Lh. Hinnavaru, Falaha

6. Hassan Nabah, V. Veronica

Sofwan and Nabah had received below 75 percent points during committee evaluation.

It was stated in committee report that those who score above 75 percent points are deemed to be worthy of being appointed to the commission.