Sunday’s sitting of the People’s Majlis began with a moment of silence in honour of former lawmaker Hussain Mohamed who passed away last week.

Hussain passed away on Thursday, while receiving treatment at Tree Top Hospital.

Speaking at the start of the sitting, Deputy Speaker Eva Abdulla noted Hussain’s various contributions to the country.

Noting that she herself had been Hussain’s colleague at the People’s Majlis for nearly 10 years, Eva said that he had always shown patience and kindness even at the toughest of times.

A condolence book is to opened in honour of the late parliamentarian at the People’s Majlis later on Sunday, for a one-week period.

After this announcement, the parliamentarians went into a moment of silence, prior to going about with the day’s work.

Hussain Mohamed served the country throughout his life, especially in the political arena as well as in the development of the media sector.

He started his career in journalism in 1980, and filled various senior roles at the state-run Television Maldives (TVM) including as deputy director, director of programmes, director general and executive director.

In media, he specialized in the international and sports areas; he introduced and created an interest for foreign sports news in the country.

Hussain also served in the education sector, including as the director general and a deputy at the Ministry of Education.

After over 30 years of experience as political researcher, Hussain Mohamed started his career in politics in 2005. He served as the parliament representative for Ari Atoll from 2005 to 2009 which was followed by two consecutive terms as the Mathiveri constituency MP, from 2009 to 2019.

Incumbent President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, a former parliamentarian who worked closely with Hussain, described him as a “dear friend”.