President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has denied that a regional pharmacy manager of the State Trading Organization (STO) was demoted over social media posts criticizing him and senior government officials.
Ahmed Shiyaz Naeem, who was demoted from the post of manager to Gaaf Dhaal Atoll Pharmacies, told Adhadhu that STO began looking into the matter on February 29. He was asked to give an online statement regarding his social media posts.
He confirmed the authenticity of a letter sent by STO which circulated on social media. According to the letter, the company decided to demote him from regional pharmacy manager to stock officer.
Speaking in Kurendhoo as part of atoll tours to coincide with the parliamentary elections campaign, Muizzu said he disagrees with taking action against those who criticize the government.
Muizzu said he found out about the matter on a news website and questioned STO's Managing Director.
“The MD said that was not the case and that more serious issues were involved. The matter was conducted as per the company's rules and policies," Muizzu said.
The letter, signed by STO General Manager Mariyam Nuzla reads: "The irresponsible posts on social media aimed at the President and senior government officials is not something that should have been done by an employee in a responsible position such as Ahmed Shiyaz who has been entrusted with representing the company."
Muizzu said that he had asked the MD to provide a public explanation for the demotion and that a false story was being reported by the media.
"We see some people trying to distort the truth. So things need to be clarified and the people need to know the truth," he said.
