Former Elections Commissioner Ibrahim Rashaad, a veteran civil servant who spent more than four decades in public service, has died at the age of 78.

Rashaad, of MA. Alithari, passed away on Friday. Funeral prayers are scheduled to be held at midnight.

Over a career spanning more than 45 years, Rashaad held a number of senior positions in government, including Commissioner of Elections, Minister of State and Principal Collector of Customs. He also served as Atoll Chief of Lhaviyani and Thaa atolls.

In recognition of his service to the nation, he was awarded the Order of the Distinguished Rule of Izzuddin.

Rashaad began his career in government service in June 1961 as secretary at the Ministry of Commerce. He later served in a range of senior administrative roles, including secretary at the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Finance and the Airport Office.

His career also included positions as English Secretary at the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education and Radio Maldives, as well as manager at the State Trading Organization (STO) and legal officer at the Northern Regional Office.

He went on to serve as Senior Under Secretary at the Ministry of Atolls Administration, Vice Chairman of the Atolls Development Advisory Board and Projects Director.

Rashaad also held the posts of Director of the Selected Islands Development Unit, Director General of the Department of Elections and Director General of Maldives Post Limited.

When he retired from public service in September 2008, he was serving as Principal Collector of Customs.

He is survived by his wife and three daughters.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu extended condolences to Rashaad's family, describing him as a dedicated public servant who carried out every responsibility entrusted to him with diligence, integrity and careful planning.

In a post on X, the President said Rashaad had been an exemplary administrator who earned the trust of both the public and national leaders through his professionalism, principles and loyalty to the state.

The President also highlighted Rashaad's efforts to modernize and streamline government administration at a time when technological resources were limited, noting that his contributions helped improve the delivery of public services.

"The country has lost a valuable and capable expert," the President said.