Fuwad Thowfeek has been elected Elections Commissioner.

Ahmed Shareef resigned from the post of chairman of Elections Commission back in June, it has remained vacant since. Shareef tendered his resignation on June 15, however he did not disclose reasons for his resignation.

The ex-Elections Commissioner did reveal plans to continue serving the public, having expressed satisfaction in having worked sincerely and in dedication during the last three national elections.

Appointed the chief of the commission ahead of the Presidential Elections of 2018 by now incarcerated former president Abdulla Yameen, Shareef served as Managing Director of FENAKA Corporation prior to his appointment to the commission.

Commission members unanimously voted to appoint Thowfeek as their new chairperson on Wednesday. He was already a member of the EC at the time of his appointment.

Thowfeek has expertise in carrying out the role of chairperson, having previously served as the Elections Commissioner for 2008 to 2014 as well.

During March 2014, Thowfeek was sentenced to six months in jail. However, a stay order was issued by the Supreme Court, for three years. He was consecutively stripped from his position as Elections Commissioner.