MALE' — Deputy Speaker of Parliament Ahmed Nazim resigned from his post on Sunday, moments before lawmakers were due to consider a no-confidence motion filed against him by the ruling People's National Congress (PNC).

Parliament had scheduled a special sitting to vote on the motion, which sought Nazim's removal from the position. However, Nazim submitted his resignation before the session commenced, effectively ending the proceedings against him.

In a resignation statement released shortly before his departure, Nazim rejected the allegations made against him by members of his own party. He maintained that the claims lacked merit and defended his conduct during his tenure as Deputy Speaker.

The no-confidence motion accused Nazim of violating parliamentary standing orders and discriminating against certain lawmakers in the conduct of parliamentary business.

While details have not been officially confirmed, reports circulating in political circles suggest that additional allegations relating to possible criminal conduct had also been raised against him. It has been reported that a police intelligence report concerning Nazim had been submitted, although neither the authorities nor the ruling party have publicly commented on the matter.

Sources familiar with the developments said Nazim had been asked to step down from the post prior to the filing of the no-confidence motion. However, after he reportedly declined to resign, the ruling party proceeded with the motion to remove him from office.

Following Nazim's resignation, Parliament is expected to hold a special sitting later on Sunday to elect a new Deputy Speaker.