The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has suspended the chief judge at the High Court, Shujau Usman, as it investigates undue influence allegations against him.

JSC made the decision to suspend Usman for a two-month day period at its 52nd meeting held on Wednesday, under Article 25 of the Judicial Service Commission Act. In addition to Usman, chief magistrate at the GA. Maamendhoo Court Ahmed Shukoor has been suspended for the same period.

In a statement, JSC said that Usman is accused of campaigning in the 2018 presidential elections including in taking part in campaign trips. During of such trip to Gemanafushi island in Gaafu Alif atoll, he is to have met with the family of a detainee and assured them of his release given that they vote for a certain candidate.

While the commission has completed its investigative report, Usman was given seven days to respond to the allegations on Monday.

Following Usman’s suspension, Judge Shuaib Hussain will take over his responsibilies as chief judge at the High Court.

Usman was appointed as the head judge of the High Court by the previous administration, in August 2018.

The Maamendhoo Court magistrate has been accused of similar dealings as well. As such, he is to have joined a campaign trip to Villingilli island in the atoll, during September 2018.

Shukoor’s statement has been obtained, for the investigation.