Mohamed Shakeel has resigned from his positions as Managing Director and Board Member of Maldives Hajj Corporation Limited following his appointment to the Elections Commission (EC).
The Privatization and Corporatization Board (PCB) announced that it had formally accepted Shakeel’s resignation and relieved him of his duties at the state-owned company.
In a statement, the PCB said Shakeel submitted his resignation from both the managing director’s post and the corporation’s board after being selected to fill a vacancy on the Elections Commission.
The vacancy arose following the resignation of former Elections Commission President Mohamed Zahid, who stepped down despite having more than three years remaining in his term.
Earlier this week, Parliament approved President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s nomination of Shakeel to the independent electoral body, paving the way for his return to the commission.
Shakeel is no stranger to the Elections Commission. He previously served as a commission member from December 2014 until May 2018. Before joining the commission, he also held the position of Director General of the Elections Commission between September 2013 and December 2014.
His previous experience in election administration was among the factors highlighted during the nomination process.
During his tenure at Maldives Hajj Corporation, Shakeel oversaw the operations of the state-owned company responsible for facilitating Hajj and Umrah services for Maldivian pilgrims. The corporation plays a key role in managing pilgrimage arrangements and coordinating with Saudi Arabian authorities on behalf of Maldivian pilgrims.
The Elections Commission, which consists of five members, is responsible for overseeing elections, referendums and political party registration in the Maldives. As one of the country’s key independent institutions, the commission plays a central role in safeguarding the democratic process.
With Shakeel’s appointment now approved, attention is expected to shift toward the appointment of new leadership at the Hajj Corporation while the Elections Commission prepares to move forward with a full complement of members once again.
