No support for morally base activities, even if conducted by parties: Shakeel

The newly appointed President of the Elections Commission, Mohamed Shakeel, has stated that the commission will not tolerate unethical conduct or criminal activities, even if carried out by political parties.

Speaking on a state media program, Shakeel assured that the Commission would provide full cooperation to political parties for activities conducted within the legal framework. However, he emphasized that the Commission would not support any actions by political parties that involve unethical behavior or the commission of criminal offenses.

Shakeel made these remarks as Parliament continues to deliberate on a government-sponsored resolution calling for action against political parties allegedly operating in violation of the Political Parties Act. The resolution seeks to halt such activities and ensure that measures are taken against those involved in accordance with the law.

The resolution emphasized that it is vital for national interest and public order that political parties conduct their activities within the boundaries prescribed by the Constitution and the Political Parties Act. It further noted that some political parties are conducting activities in violation of Section 45 of the Political Parties Act, disrupting public peace and disregarding established legal principles. As these unlawful activities have caused significant hardship for thousands of residents in Malé, the resolution calls upon the relevant state authorities to halt such illegal actions and take legal action against those responsible in accordance with the law.

Shakeel most recently served as the Managing Director of the Maldives Hajj Corporation. In addition to holding the position of Director General at the Commission, he has also served as a Commission member. Notably, Shakeel also recently held the post of Registrar for the ruling People's National Congress (PNC).

Shakeel’s appointment to the top post at the Elections Commission—the body mandated to ensure fair elections—comes amid scrutiny over his history of vocal political activism. He has been a prominent critic of the main opposition party, the MDP, frequently using social media to voice his disapproval.

Furthermore, during the previous MDP administration, Shakeel was a staunch supporter of the "India Out" campaign led by the then-opposition. He is noted for his public rhetoric against the Indian government and for directing harsh criticism toward the Maldivian government of that time.