Daudh Ahmed Zilal, Under Secretary for Digital Strategy at the President’s Office, has been dismissed following the findings of the Special Presidential Commission investigating the April 18 incident involving Yumnu Rasheed, who was found collapsed on a rooftop in Henveiru.
The dismissal was confirmed on Wednesday by Chief Spokesperson at the President’s Office, Heena Waleed, who stated that the decision was based on the commission’s determination that Daudh had deliberately provided false information during the investigation.
According to the commission’s report, Daudh met his brother, Raudh Ahmed Zilal, at approximately 5:38 a.m. on the morning of the incident. In his initial statement to the police, Daudh claimed that Raudh had not mentioned Yumnu’s fall and had entered the residence—identified as H. Maaira—alone. He also maintained that he had not contacted any senior government officials in relation to the incident.
However, testimony from two witnesses—Mohamed Iyan and Saaif Mohamed—directly contradicted Daudh’s account. Both individuals stated that Daudh had indeed checked on his brother and entered the residence with him. Furthermore, phone records and witness testimony confirmed that Daudh had communicated several times throughout the day with Minister of Homeland Security and Technology, Ali Ihusaan.
The commission noted “significant inconsistencies” between the statement Daudh gave to police and the version of events he presented to the commission, concluding that he had intentionally misled investigators.
As a result of these findings, the President’s Office took immediate disciplinary action, terminating Daudh from his post. The dismissal underscores the administration’s stated commitment to accountability and transparency in public office, particularly in the context of sensitive investigations involving state officials.
The Special Presidential Commission continues to probe the circumstances surrounding the April 18 incident, which drew national attention due to its unclear details and high-level connections. Further updates from the commission are expected as the investigation progresses.
