The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, has dissolved all ad hoc committees of the House with immediate effect.
The directive was contained in a statement issued on Sunday by the Clerk to the House of Representatives, Sidi Ibrahim.
According to Ibrahim, the decision was taken in line with Order 18, Rule 5 of the Standing Orders of the House of Representatives.
He explained that ad hoc committees were established to carry out specific assignments within a defined period and submit their reports, rather than operate as permanent or standing committees.
The Clerk said the decision followed earlier directives for all ad hoc committees to conclude their assignments and submit their reports within the stipulated timeframe.
He disclosed that only two committees had sought extensions to complete their assignments and were granted an additional two weeks in accordance with the House rules.
However, the two-week extension had since expired.
“I am directed by the Speaker, House of Representatives, Rep. Abbas Tajudeen, to inform all members that all ad hoc committees of the House stand dissolved with immediate effect,” Ibrahim said.
He added that the dissolution was also in accordance with Order 18, Rule 11, Paragraph 5, which provides limitations on the time within which committees must submit their reports.
“Having exceeded the time allotted, the continued existence of the ad hoc committees is no longer tenable,” he said.
Ibrahim directed members to immediately cease all activities being conducted in the name of the dissolved committees.
He also directed the chairmen of the affected committees to submit all outstanding reports, working documents, records and other relevant materials to the Office of the Clerk of the House for safekeeping.
The Clerk urged all members to take note of the directive and ensure strict compliance.