The Vice President of the Elections Commission, Ahmed Akram has resigned from the commission. His resignation comes while the Parliament Committee on Independent Institutions made the decision to seek his dismissal earlier on Wednesday.
In a letter of resignation sent to President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, Akram said he is aware that the parliament committee wishes to dismiss him from EC membership due to allegations against him, and that he does not wish to remain as a member of an independent commission if the parliament committee on independent institutions does not have confidence in him. Stating that the allegations raised against him are false, Akram said the allegations are an attempt by a group of people to frame him for something he has not done. He defended himself and stated that all information regarding the allegations had been shared with the committee on independent institutions, and assured that he did not commit any acts that are alleged against him.
Akram was being dismissed due to sexual harassment allegations against him. The committee launched an investigation into the accusations, and summoned Akram as well as his alleged victim for questioning. During the meetings, which were conducted behind closed doors, the committee extensively investigated the matter by recording the accounts of persons involved. The committee then concluded in favour of dismissing Akram, with the votes of seven members.
Akram was recently re-elected for an additional term in the commission with 77 MPs voting in his favour.
Meanwhile, President of the Elections Commission, Ahmed Shareef has defended Akram, stating that he is not one to commit such depraved acts. He expressed his regret that Akram would no longer be a member of the commission.
