Former Minister of Finance Ibrahim Ameer has strongly criticized the current administration, accusing it of failing to reduce public expenditure or introduce necessary financial reforms.

Speaking on RaajjeTV’s ‘TV Talk’ programme, Ameer revealed that more than 3,000 individuals currently hold political positions within the government.

Ameer, who served as finance minister under the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) administration, noted that during their administration, the economy faced severe shocks due to the Covid-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war, which collectively caused a loss of around 32 percent of GDP and a 60 percent drop in revenue.

However, Ameer said that despite those extraordinary challenges, the MDP administration worked to keep the economy afloat, protect livelihoods, and prevent mass business closures.

He emphasized that during that time, the MDP administration reduced government spending, made difficult decisions, and borrowed only as necessary to support the economy through crisis.

Ameer claimed that the current administration, led by the main ruling People’s National Congress (PNC), has failed to take similar action, instead continuing to increase expenditures without introducing reforms or austerity measures.

Ameer stressed that not only are expenses not being reduced, but the current government’s spending is also significantly higher than it was under the MDP administration.

He further expressed concern over the soaring dollar rate in the parallel market, describing it as a clear indicator of fiscal mismanagement.

Addressing criticism over national debt, Ameer clarified that while the debt increased by approximately MVR 60 billion during the MDP government’s term, MVR 19 billion of that was directly linked to Covid-19-related emergency borrowing. After adjusting for that, he said the remaining MVR 37 billion includes MVR nine billion carried over from the previous administration led by former President Abdulla Yameen.

Ameer also raised concerns about rampant nepotism and unchecked hiring practices, claiming that individuals are being employed at state-owned enterprises (SOEs) such as RDC and WAMCO, even in islands where these companies have no operational presence.

He alleged that people are being given jobs in name only, just to collect a salary, and that there is no accountability.

Ameer questioned the effectiveness of oversight bodies like the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), stating that despite their existence, no institution appears willing or able to investigate these issues.

The former minister concluded by stating that the government has a duty to manage public resources responsibly, especially in a time of economic strain. He warned that unless meaningful reforms and spending cuts are introduced, the nation risks further economic instability.