This government, which came to power under the "Pro-Maldives" banner, has established a record for destroying the highest number of small businesses in history: MP Shamheed
During the debate on proposed amendments to the Employment Act, MP Shamheed characterized the current administration as the most destructive government toward small businesses in Maldivian history. He accused the government of systematically harassing the public by utilizing state-owned enterprises to grant opportunities to foreign entities, thereby encroaching upon sectors traditionally operated by local entrepreneurs. Consequently, Shamheed called for an immediate end to these perceived injustices against Maldivian businesses.
Member of Parliament for the South Hulhumale' constituency, Dr. Ahmed Shamheed, addresses Monday's parliamentary session. | RaajjeMV | RaajjeMV
Dr. Ahmed Shamheed, the Member of Parliament for the South Hulhumale' constituency, has stated that President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s administration has devastated the country's small businesses under the guise of its "Pro-Maldives" policy.
The debate on the government-proposed amendment to the Employment Act took place during Tuesday's session of the People's Majlis.
Debating the bill, MP Shamheed asserted that the current administration has dismantled more small businesses than any other government in Maldivian history. He further stated that no citizen would disagree with this reality.
Shamheed stated that this is a coordinated effort, asserting that the government is encroaching upon private businesses solely to harass the public.
"Now, even carpentry work is being outsourced to China. These are the types of activities that small businesses in our local islands have traditionally relied upon. Today, however, the government is facilitating these projects for foreign entities through State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs). This administration must cease the harm it is inflicting on Maldivian businesses under the guise of being 'Pro-Maldives'."Dr. Ahmed Shamheed, Member of Parliament for the South Hulhumale' constituency.
Opposition figures, business owners, and members of the general public have accused the government of interfering in private enterprises and undermining the business sector.
In this regard, several business owners highlighted the optical industry, noting that private enterprises have long been providing prescription eyewear services. They further emphasized that private businesses in the Maldives have consistently maintained service standards on par with those in the country and across the region, and continue to provide these services to the same high standard today.
Despite this, stakeholders have noted that the government has entered the market by establishing an eyewear company. They have described this move as a significant detriment to existing businesses in the sector.
