Mauritania's former director of operations at the Port of Tanit, Ali Seydi Moukhtar El Ail, has categorically denied any connection between his dismissal and reports from the General State Inspectorate. In a statement sent to an independent news agency, El Ail clarified that no observations, irregularities, or personal financial, administrative, or managerial responsibilities were recorded against him in any report or inspection task by the General State Inspectorate.
El Ail emphasized that he was not aware of any report or recommendation from the General State Inspectorate that suggested his dismissal or termination. He also stated that no official document from the inspectorate attributed any wrongdoing to him that would warrant such action. His comments come after the news agency listed him among officials who were allegedly dismissed following reports from the General State Inspectorate.
The news agency had reported that El Ail was dismissed from his position at the Port of Tanit in mid-July 2025, along with the port's administrative and financial manager, Abdullah Ould Al-Toumi. This followed the dismissal of the port's general manager, Ahmed Ould Khatri, about two months earlier. El Ail's dismissal was reportedly based on data suggesting a connection to inspectorate reports.
El Ail expressed concern that including his name in the list of dismissed officials might imply a connection between his dismissal and any observations or irregularities recorded by the inspectorate. He strongly denied any such connection. In his statement, El Ail requested that the news agency correct the information and remove any implication of a link between his dismissal and any inspectorate reports or recommendations.
El Ail's request aims to ensure the accuracy of published information and protect his professional reputation. He stressed that his demand does not impinge on the agency's right to publish but is essential for maintaining the integrity of the information. The former director's statement highlights the complexities surrounding staff dismissals in Mauritanian ports and the potential impact on individuals' reputations.
The incident raises questions about the processes involved in staff dismissals and the role of state inspectorate reports in such decisions. El Ail's case underscores the need for transparency and clear communication to avoid misunderstandings and protect the rights of those involved. The Mauritanian authorities have not publicly commented on the matter.
The controversy highlights the challenges of balancing accountability with fairness in administrative actions. As El Ail seeks to clear his name, the incident continues to draw attention to the governance and management practices within Mauritania's port sector.
Key points
- El Ail denies any wrongdoing or connection between his dismissal and state inspectorate reports.
