Defense Minister Ghassan Maumoon is undergoing treatment for serious kidney disease.

Adhadhu understands that Ghassan has been undergoing treatment for some time. However, Ghassan and the Defense Ministry could not be reached for comment.

Ghassan has been unable to attend cabinet meeting and some other important meetings due to his illness.

When asked for a comment, President’s Office Strategic Communications Minister Ibrahim Khaleel said he was not aware of Ghassan’s illness.

But he confirmed that Ghassan was reporting to work.

Rumors about his illness first circulated on social media during the weekend.

Ghassan is the son of former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom. He was an MP in 19th People's Majlis and a President's Office minister during the government of former President Abdulla Yameen.