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President of Utheemu Council suspended

President of Ha. Utheemu Council, Abdulla Rasheed has been suspended.

According to the Local Government Authority (LGA), Abdulla Rasheed, a member of the opposing Preogressive Party of Maldives (PPM) who is also running for reelection in the upcoming local council election, was suspended as per a decision reached at LGA’s 28th board meeting. He was suspended in relation to issues regarding the provision of cable TV services in the island.

The letter sent to Abdulla Rasheed informing of his suspension outlined ten issues related to the matter. The letter, signed by LGA’s CEO and main ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP)’s former Secretary General Fathmath Afshan said the period of suspension was indefinite. Abdulla Rasheed has been granted until November 24th to respond to the allegations raised against him.

LGA has previously recognised Utheemu Council as an exemplary council. Some members of the opposition believe Abdulla Rasheed’s suspension is politically motivated, and is aimed to disqualify his candidacy for the upcoming council elections.