A new political employee has been appointed to the Environment Ministry, where a fire broke out in the office building last Thursday, disrupting its operations.

Adhadhu has learned that President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has appointed Leela Ibrahim Manik, a member of the opposition Democrats Party, as the Senior Political Director of the ministry.

Several senior officials from the Environment Ministry confirmed the appointment to Adhadhu.

In this year's parliamentary elections, Leela secured the Democrats' ticket to contest in Thaa Guraidhoo. However, over a week before the polls, she withdrew her candidacy to endorse the current MP, Hanan Mohamed Rasheed, who contested under the PNC ticket.

Leela began reporting to the Environment Ministry after the fire incident, when the office was temporarily relocated to Dharubaaruge.

She has not commented on her appointment and did not respond to text messages from Adhadhu.

Leela previously served as a member of the Employment Tribunal during the last MDP government. After resigning, she joined the Democrats during the first round of last year's presidential election campaign.

Despite the government’s stated commitment to reducing political appointments amidst the state’s dire financial situation, such hires continue.

On December 8, President Muizzu reportedly sent a text message indicating that he had fulfilled the job requests of PNC lawmakers in Parliament.

Leela’s appointment comes as the Democrats have resumed rallies and criticism against the government.