The Local Government Authority (LGA) on Saturday, indefinetely suspended Abdulla Rasheed, the President of the Utheemu Island Council in Haa Alif Atoll.
According to LGA, the decision was taken during a meeting held on November 8, with Rasheed suspended until LGA completes a probe into the 11 cases filed against the councillor.
LGA is currently investigating claims that Rasheed abused his position for corrupt gains, including the usage of council funds to procure items for a vendor. He is also accused of unfairly selecting employees for jobs without due process.
His indefinite suspension has raised eyebrows in civil society, with multiple activists and lawyers defending the councillor and claiming an unlawful suspension.