Mohamed Maleeh, the Minister of Communication, Science and Technology, said that State Minister Mohamed Shaafee’s reason for resigning is not valid.

State Minister Shaafee resigned after expressed concern that the current administration is proceeding with a software project initiated by the previous administration of President Abdulla Yameen, which he claimed is marred with corruption.

Speaking to RaajjeMV, Minister Maleeh said that Shaafee’s ‘unfounded’ claims are for the sole purpose of defaming the government.

Minister Maleeh said that Shaafee had gone on Eid holiday and then took another holiday without pay from May 30 to June 17, during which time his office was unable to contact him.

Minister Maleeh said that Shaafee had given his resignation while the President’s Office was evaluating his conduct, which might have concluded with his dismissal.

The Minister questioned why Shafee did not resign before going on holiday, if he was concerned about the alleged corruption.

He also said that they have discussed with the finance ministry and the health sector regarding the software for the state-run hospital IGMH and that they plan to seek software developers through a bidding process.