Nazim Says Resignation Was to Protect Parliament, Rejects Allegations Behind Removal Bid

Deputy Speaker Ahmed Nazim has said his decision to resign from the post was made in the interest of protecting the dignity and independence of Parliament, while rejecting allegations that formed the basis of an impeachment effort against him.

In a statement issued on X after submitting his resignation today, Nazim said he had received the resolution seeking his removal from office and had reviewed the claims made against him. He maintained that the allegations were unfounded and were not supported by evidence.

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Nazim stated that throughout his tenure as Deputy Speaker he had carried out his responsibilities in accordance with the Constitution, parliamentary rules and established procedures. He said he had sought to discharge his duties impartially and fairly, without favouring any individual or political group.

pic.twitter.com/ugNjrXfAQP— Ahmed Nazim (@MP4Dhiggaru) May 31, 2026

According to Nazim, the allegations contained in the motion did not constitute grounds for removal under the legal framework governing Parliament. He argued that accepting such claims as a basis for impeachment could create a concerning precedent and undermine the institutional independence of the legislature.

The veteran lawmaker said that, after considering the broader implications of the dispute, he had decided to step down from the position of Deputy Speaker. He said the decision was taken to safeguard the reputation of Parliament, uphold democratic principles and prevent further disruption to the work of the legislature.

Nazim also expressed gratitude to fellow lawmakers and parliamentary staff for their cooperation during his time in office.

His resignation came shortly before Parliament was due to vote on a no-confidence motion submitted by members of the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC). Following the resignation, Speaker Abdul Raheem Abdulla announced that the matter had been resolved and concluded the impeachment proceedings.

The PNC had sought Nazim’s removal, alleging that he had acted in a manner contrary to the interests of Parliament and had allowed political considerations to influence his conduct. Nazim, however, has rejected those claims and insists that he carried out his duties within the bounds of the law and parliamentary procedure.

According to reports, Nazim is currently abroad.

Nazim is widely regarded as one of the most experienced members of the current Parliament. He previously served as Deputy Speaker from 2009 to 2015 and was closely associated with former president Abdulla Yameen. He also held senior positions within the People’s Alliance, a political party formerly led by Yameen.

In 2015, Nazim was convicted of fraud and sentenced to 25 years in prison. Later that year, he sought political asylum in the United Kingdom after travelling to Singapore for medical treatment. He returned to the Maldives in 2018 following a change of government and after the Supreme Court overturned his conviction.