Deputy Speaker and MP for Dhiggaru constituency Ahmed Nazim (PNC) has been removed from two of the strongest parliament committees: the National Security Services Committee (241 Committee) and the Public Accounts Committee.

The National Security Services Committee is often called the 241 Committee in reference to Article 241 of the Maldives Constitution. This is the only parliament committee that is specifically mentioned in the Constitution. It bears responsibility of oversight of security services, and advises the parliament and the government on related affairs. 

Article 241 of the Constitution states, "A committee of the People’s Majlis shall be established to exercise continuing oversight of the operations of the security services. The committee shall include representation from all the different political parties within the People’s Majlis".

The Public Accounts Committee, meanwhile, has always been the most highly regarded committee within the parliament. It is responsible for examining State and government expenditure and debt, among other related affairs.

Nazim has been notably active in both committees in this term, often being the MP to raise major issues for committee consideration. 

According to Nazim, PNC's parliamentary group has decided to replace him on both committees because, owing to his current work obligations, he is unable to commit sufficient time for the committees. 

"Maldives is hosting a meeting of the Commonwealth Parliament Group next week. I have to take the lead in that as well. And then early next month, I have to leave town on a personal trip," Nazim explained. 

With his removal from the two key committees, Nazim now serves only on the State Owned Enterprises Committee.