Ibrahim Niyaz hailing from Hoarafushi island of Haa Alif atoll, has been elected as the first president of the Drivers Association of Maldives (DAM).
Three candidates competed for the position of DAM President.
DAM’s general meeting was held at Villa College Hall on Thursday night.
Members were elected to the positions of DAM's first permanent executive committee during the meeting.
The election was attended by several members.
Ahmed Habeeb was elected as the Vice President of DAM during the polls.
Mohamed Mathiu Najeeb from Villingili island of Gaaf Alif atoll was elected as the Secretary General.
Misbah Shareef was elected as the Organizing Secretary.
Ali Mushaffau from Maradhoo district of southernmost Addu City was elected as the Treasurer.
It is noted that the President, Vice President, and Secretary General elected to the permanent executive committee were the same individuals who held these positions in the interim executive committee.
Speaking at the DAM general meeting held on Thursday night, the guest of honor, Hassan Rameez, noted that the election was the first democratic election held for drivers.
He expressed hope that the newly elected executive committee will put in their best efforts to strengthen the sector and called on all members to remain united.
He also advised drivers to improve their ethics and conduct.
DAM stated that the election proceeded with great enthusiasm, showing an unprecedented strong spirit and passion from the drivers.
In his speech, the elected president of the association highlighted that there is a lot of work to be done by the newly elected members.
DAM’s formation and the election of its permanent executive committee comes at a time the incumbent administration of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu is attempting to infiltrate into the taxi service sector.
Those active in the sector, which has long been a service provided solely by private parties, have been expressing great concern about this matter.
