President Muizzu says he was unaware of individuals holding high-salaried political positions within MACL
During a press conference at the President's Office on Monday, President Muizzu avoided a direct response to a journalist's inquiry, stating instead that efforts are underway to reform state-owned enterprises. The President noted that instructions have been issued to reduce staff numbers based on performance evaluations, work ethic, punctuality, attendance, and other key metrics.
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu speaks during a press conference held at the President's Office. | President's Office | president office
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has stated that he was unaware of several high-salaried political appointees currently holding positions at Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL).
During a press conference held at the President's Office on Monday, President Muizzu avoided providing a direct answer to a reporter's question, stating instead that efforts are currently underway to reform state-owned enterprises.
President Muizzu stated that instructions have been issued to reduce staff numbers based on evaluations of performance, diligence, punctuality, attendance, and other relevant criteria.
Highlighting that numerous positive reforms are on the horizon, President Muizzu stated that all such measures will be implemented in accordance with the law and established corporate procedures.
It is not just MACL. The Finance Minister has instructed the Privatization and Corporatization Board (PCB) to reduce the workforce across all State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs). This reduction is to be based on performance evaluations, including work ethic, attendance, and punctuality, as well as the overall operational needs of the companies. Following these instructions, companies have now begun the necessary processes to downsize their staff. These measures are expected to bring about significant positive reforms.President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu
Furthermore, President Muizzu stated that he has not received the list containing the names of 85 employees at MACL who are reportedly receiving high salaries despite having no assigned work.
I have not received any such list. However, a general directive has been issued to all State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) through the Ministry of Finance to reduce their workforce by one-third wherever possible. In implementing these reductions, even for those receiving substantial salaries, the focus will be on performance-based evaluations. If individuals are found to be underperforming or failing to meet organizational standards, corrective measures must be taken. This process will be carried out across all SOEs.President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu
President Muizzu’s remarks come amid scrutiny over the fact that political appointments are made directly under the President's discretionary powers. A leaked list circulating on X (formerly Twitter) reveals that 85 individuals at Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) are receiving substantial salaries, some just under MVR 50,000. The list includes well-known film stars, former members of parliament, and a journalist. The disclosure has sparked widespread public outrage and intense criticism of the administration.
