RDC employee dismissed after participating in ‘Lootuvaifi’ rally

An employee of the state-owned Road Development Corporation (RDC) has been abruptly dismissed following his participation in the October 3 ‘Lootuvaifi, Lootuvaifi’ protest organized by the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) in the capital Malé City.

Despite President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s repeated campaign promises that only individuals in political positions would be subject to dismissal under his administration, Mohamed Nishaam of R. Maduvvari, who served as a Senior Building Maintenance Officer at RDC, was terminated on October 8.

The reason cited in the dismissal letter was a vague reference to the corporation’s Human Resource Policy. Notably, the termination was carried out under the "immediate dismissal in lieu of notice" clause, with Nishaam being compensated with one month's salary, a move that critics argue was designed to bypass due process.

The timing and circumstances of the termination have raised serious concerns about political retaliation and the erosion of civil liberties under the Muizzu administration. Nishaam’s dismissal follows a growing pattern of punitive actions taken against individuals associated with opposition activities, including protests and political expression on social media.

MDP’s legal team has announced its intention to file a case with the Employment Tribunal, citing unlawful dismissal and political discrimination.

The incident casts further doubt on the government’s commitment to protecting non-political civil servants from politically motivated reprisals. It also adds to the mounting evidence of a broader crackdown on dissent, in stark contrast to the president’s assurances of tolerance and inclusivity during his election campaign.

As public sector employees face increasing pressure to conform politically, this latest case underscores the shrinking space for political expression and protest under the current administration.