News DeskHeena Waleed, who garnered attention for her adept communication skills during the recent parliamentary elections as the spokesperson for the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC), has been appointed as the Chief Spokesperson of the President’s Office, announced yesterday.
Adding to her responsibilities, Waleed will concurrently hold her position as the CEO of the National Social Protection Agency (NSPA), the President’s Office confirmed. Notably, she has declined to accept the salary associated with the spokesperson post, as stated by the President’s office.
This marks a historic moment as Waleed becomes the first woman to assume the role of Chief Spokesperson of the President’s Office. Her extensive professional background includes stints in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and various roles within the realm of news media. Previously, she served as the Head of News at PSM, the state media outlet. Waleed, born in Addu city Hithadhoo, holds a degree in Mass Communication Journalism and Advertising from a prestigious university in New Delhi.
Having previously served as the spokesperson for PNC, Waleed’s appointment comes at a crucial juncture, addressing concerns regarding the absence of a designated spokesperson for the government. The administration, led by President Dr. Muizzu, had initially appointed Mohammed Shaheeb as the spokesperson on December 17, a month after assuming power on November 17. However, Shaheeb was unexpectedly relieved of his duties and transferred to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on the first day of this year, just 18 days after his appointment. The government has yet to provide a rationale for Shaheeb’s abrupt dismissal from his role.
