MDP expresses concern over political activist recommendations for BroadCom

The opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) today expressed concern over the recommendation of political activists to the vacant post of Maldives Broadcasting Commission (BroadCom).

The recommendations come after the terms of two BroadCom members expired this month. They are Mariyam Waheedha, who held the position of Chairperson of the Commission, and Ali Yoosuf, a member of the Commission.

Twelve eligible candidates applied in response to the announcement made by the President's Office to fill these two positions. President Muizzu sent the list to the Parliament, indicating his order of preference.

At the top of that list are the names of former MP for Ihavandhoo constituency, Mohamed Abdullah (Muhamma), and Muaz, who served as the Presidential Spokesperson during former President Abdulla Yameen's administration.

The two individuals the President has given priority for appointment as members are both working as political activists.

In a press conference held by MDP, north Galolhu MPMohamed Ibrahim (Kudoo) said that it is absolutely unacceptable to appoint two former political appointees to BroadCom.

"This is a very wrong message being sent to educated youth," he said.

South Galolhu MP Meekail Naseem also criticised Muhamma and Muaz's appointment, said that it shows that there is no point of getting educated and gaining experience in this government. Further said that the only thing people need to do to reach a high position is to maintain close relations with the government.

While 12 individuals applied for the BroadCom positions, experiences journalist Shifza Mustafa's name was in 10th place. Many took to social media to criticise this decision.

The order of President Muizzu's list

- Mohamed Abdulla (Muhamma), HA. Ihavandhoo

- Ibrahim Muaz Ali, N. Fodhhoo

- Ibrahim Ashraf, V. Mashiveli

- Lieutenant Colonel Retired Zubair Ahmed Manik, Malé City

- Abdulla Humaid, Lh. Hinnavaru

- Aishath Dhiyana Thohir, S. Hithadhoo

- Aminath Saraahath, Malé City

- Shimla Ahmed, S. Hithadhoo

- Ismail Shafeeq, Malé City

- Shifza Musthafa, Fuvahmulah City

- Ali Nishan, Malé City

- Mohamed Shameem, Malé City

Mohamed previously worked in the film industry before being elected to the Parliament on a PPM ticket. He later left the party and worked against the government. However, he has recently started working with PPM/PNC again.

With the change of the PPM government, Muaz also distanced himself from the party. However, recently he has been speaking in support of the government on social media.