UN Envoy reinstated days after dismissal over MP sister's leaked anti-government audio

Apr 9, 2026, 10:28 AM
Dr. Salma Rasheed (pictured in pink), the Permanent Representative to the United Nations Office in Geneva; she was dismissed from her post two days ago. — Photo: Foreign Ministry

Dr. Salma Rasheed (pictured in pink), the Permanent Representative to the United Nations Office in Geneva; she was dismissed from her post two days ago. — Photo: Foreign Ministry

Dr. Salma Rasheed has been reinstated as the Permanent Representative to the United Nations Office in Geneva, shortly after she was dismissed following the leak of an audio recording featuring her sister, Maafannu Central MP Asma Rasheed, speaking against the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC).

A member of Salma’s family confirmed to Adhadhu that the notice previously issued regarding her dismissal has now been rescinded.

In the leaked audio, Asma Rasheed was heard harshly criticizing the government and the PNC. Specifically, she urged individuals not to vote for PNC candidates in the recent local council elections and the referendum.

UAE Ambassador, UN Envoy sacked after MP's anti-government audio leaks

The Maldives government dismissed its Ambassador to the UAE and its UN Envoy following the leak of an anti-government audio recording featuring their relative, MP Asma Rasheed. In the recording, the ruling party lawmaker reportedly advised against supporting government campaign activities, leading to the removal of her son and sister from their diplomatic posts.

At the time the audio surfaced, Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates Mohamed Hussain Shareef (Mundhu) was also dismissed alongside Salma. Mundhu is Asma’s son.

In addition to these two officials, it was widely anticipated that State Minister for Fisheries Aminath Hussain Shareef would also be removed from her post. However, she remains in her position. 

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