Local Government Authority has suspended 26 council members who were actively involved in the primary election of Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) held on May 30. In this regard, LGA suspended 21 islands councilors and five atoll councilors without wage and allowances for a period of three months.
In separate letters sent to council offices, LGA noted the authority has evidence some council member took part in the MDP primary, disregarding the numerous orders from relevant authorities regarding illegal primary elections. The authority has also learnt that council members actively cooperated with the MDP primary, added LGA. Moreover, LGA stated suspensions for council members come with regard to the advisory of Attorney General and the regulations.
LGA has advised to refrain from attending the council office, except for services ensured for citizens from the council office during the suspension period. LGA also urged to abstain from representing the council during the period.
Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) held its primary election on May 30, at a time when Civil Court has ordered to postpone the primary election until a decision is made on the complaint filed by Elections Commission regarding MDP primary.
Civil Court on May 30 ordered Maldives Police Service and relevant authorities to halt the primary if MDP continued with the primary.