:: Dhivehi Observer :: Peoples Press ::

DO Insider Reports on Tonight's Cabinet Meeting
Gayyoom getting ready for the clampdown

DO Insiders, Male’, 29^th July 2004

Aneesa, Womens' Affair Minister and Dr. Shaugee, the Education Minister

Gayyoom's cabinet meeting room

An emergency cabinet meeting was held tonight. The purpose was to condemn last nights’ Birthday Party organised at Jamaaluddeen School. An associate of Mr. Yameen and Abdulla Shahid reported to DO that Gayyoom is absolutely furious and outraged by what occurred last night. He went as far as blasting at Dr. Shaugee, the Education Minister for not halting the party even after strict instructions from President’s Executive Secretary, Mr. Abdulla Shahid. Dr. Shaugee was asked to resign if he cannot implement executive orders.

Dr. Shaugee reportedly replied with a cold and humble voice “Your Excellency, with all due respect, I apologise for not being able to carry out the order. I was let down by my senior staff.”

He went on to add “I personally called the School but by then people were already there and there was no way to stop. Everyone is supporting these democratic debates except some cabinet member”.

The almighty powerful cabinet Minister, Yameen expressed his deep concern about the reform activities. He said that the government must enforce law and order and arrest all the reform activist. We must show them that we are in control. He also said that school halls must not be let to the public. He further added that criticism of government cannot be allowed to go on like this.

Gayyoom also mentioned that he is contemplating a cabinet reshuffle to ensure that government work is conducted in a more controlled manner. Certain mishaps by some Ministers might have already cost them their jobs. Insiders feel that Dr. Shaugee, Education Minister and Dr. Saeed, the Attorney General, newest addition to the cabinet, are bound to loose their jobs and Ilyas Ibrahim is to be changed over to the Trade Ministry. Insiders at NSS have heard rumours that Gayyoom might even transfer Yameen to the Defence Ministry as he is now Gayyoom's favourite. Abdulla Hameed is to remain in his powerful post despite public demands for his removal from all his public offices, especially that of the Speaker of the Majlis.

Gayyoom ended the meeting with a cautionary note to everyone that he is still very much in control and he expect the Ministers to be vigilant about what is taking place in the country. He said “people of this country do not want any change and I know what is best for my people.”