Services provided by civil servants must not have a single trace of political influence, says President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.

Taking the podium at the official reception held at the Republic Square to mark the 54th Republic Day of the Maldives, on Wednesday.

He noted that civil servants have the freedom to support their own political beliefs and that there are no rules or guidelines that mandate civil servants to support a specific political party or have specific political beliefs.

He further revealed that under no circumstance must a civil servant be taken action on or even dismissed from their posts if they refuse or do not take part in political activities.

The president added that civil servants are not slaves of political work.

Further speaking, the president noted that the long-awaited declaration of a minimum wage, is the gift of the Republic Day, for the Maldivian people.

He added that the government will always focus on the preservation and promotion of societal harmony, over the next two years.

Highlighting the administration’s ideology which revolves around agreeing to disagree and keep moving forward together even in the face of politically opposing views, the president stated that his administration highly prioritized maintaining social peace during the last three year.

In his speech Solih also shed light on the importance of providing an easier path for those to find jobs that suit them.

With this being said, the president stated that work is currently underway to establish job centers nationwide.

The Republic Day reception was joined by First lady Fazna Ahmed, Vice President Faisal Naseem and spouse Aishath Shamsada as well as senior government officials, parliamentarians and senior officials from state institutions.