The Local Government Authority (LGA) has suspended Ismail Shah, President of the Feridhoo Council, for three months without pay following a sexual harassment case.

The employment tribunal found Shah guilty of sexually harassing an administrative employee of the council on 21 September. The findings, published in the Gazette today, concluded that the harassment was established based on submitted documents, witness statements, and testimony. Shah has been ordered not to repeat any act of harassment against the employee.

The inquiry determined that Shah violated several provisions of the Decentralisation Act, including his responsibility to ensure the council operates in accordance with laws and regulations, and obstructing the administration of the council. The tribunal also confirmed violations of the Sexual Harassment Prevention Act.

Shah has seven days to respond to the inquiry in writing. The LGA stated that his actions could cause significant harm to council employees and the overall functioning of the council.