Male’ City Council’s SG fired after heated exchange

Wajeeh Naseer, the secretary-general of Male’ City Council, was dismissed on Thursday, in a meeting marred by a heated exchange among council members.

The no-confidence motion against Wajeeh was proposed by Ahmed Nareesh, the deputy mayor.

The council took its vote on the motion in a meeting on Thursday morning.

A top council official told Sun that Wajeeh’s dismissal was proposed over allegations of derelict of duty including refusal to dismiss employees with disciplinary issues and failure to make payments for outstanding bills.

As the motion was being called to vote, Mohamed Saif Fathih, who represents the North Galolhu constituency, pointed that Wajeeh hadn’t been given a chance to defend himself against the allegations.

He said that the council should ensure that due process is followed when making the decision.

“I propose that the SG be asked to provide a response in writing regarding the concerns we have raised here. I believe that when a vote is taken against someone, no matter who that person may be, we must also get an explanation from them, either in writing or in-person,” he said.

Aishath Nazima, who represents the South Machangolhi constituency, concurred with Saif.

Ibrahim Mohamed, who represents the South Galolhu constituency, interrupted her.

“What is the point of this council? We don’t have any power!” he exclaimed.

Ibrahim said that councilors are accountable to the people, and have a responsibility to take action if the council isn’t functioning.

Wajeeh was dismissed with a majority vote, with both Saif and Nazima abstaining.