Parliament Urgently Proposes to Dismiss First Lady from MFDA
Photo: President’s Office
In today’s session, Parliament has brought forth an urgent proposal to terminate the employment contract of First Lady Sajidha Mohamed, the wife of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu.
Dhaandhoo MDP MP Yaugoob Abdulla spearheaded the emergency motion, contending that Sajidha had secured her contract unlawfully, potentially jeopardising the rights of numerous civil service employees.
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Sajidha, holding the position of Senior Scientific Officer at the Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA) under the Ministry of Health, took an unpaid leave of four years from her job upon assuming the role of First Lady.
However, allegations surfaced that the Health Ministry had requisitioned her technical expertise, prompting the Civil Service Commission to engage her on a contractual basis. In response to these claims, Yaugoob called for the cancellation of Sajidha’s contract.
The motion received majority approval, with 21 members voting in favor and four dissenting.
Critics from opposing parties accused the MDP of using its parliamentary majority to personally target individuals, suggesting that such matters could be addressed through the Independent Institutions Committee.
PNC Moosa Siraj questioned the sincerity of the MDP, asserting that the party has the majority to scrutinise the allegations without resorting to an emergency case and making unfounded accusations.
MP Eva Abdullah expressed puzzlement over the urgency of the issue, suggesting that matters of this nature should be thoroughly debated within appropriate committees.
The Civil Service Commission defended Sajidha’s contract, asserting that it adhered to standard procedures and presented an equal opportunity for others.
In response to the controversy, Sajidha pledged to donate her salary from the Health Ministry, emphasising her commitment to supporting professionals in her field and engaging in social work during her available time.
