Finance Minister summoned over dismissal of MDP supporters
Finance Minister Zareer has been summoned to Parliament to address allegations that employees of state-owned enterprises are being dismissed based on their political affiliations. The summons follows accusations that the government is unconstitutionally targeting supporters of the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), with lawmakers seeking clarification on the justification for these actions. In response to the reported dismissals, the MDP has announced that it will provide legal assistance to those affected.
President Muizzu with Hassan Zareer, who previously served as the Commissioner General of Taxation, as the new Minister of Finance. | Presidents office
Minister of Finance and Public Enterprises Hassan Zareer has been summoned to the People’s Majlis over allegations that supporters of the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) are being unfairly dismissed from positions at state-owned enterprises.
The matter was submitted to Parliament by the Member for North Galolhu, Mohamed Ibrahim (Kudoo).
The motion to summon Minister Zareer to Parliament for questioning comes amid mounting allegations that employees participating in MDP’s internal elections and political activities are being targeted with disciplinary actions. This marks the first time Zareer has been summoned to answer a lawmaker's inquiry since assuming the role of Finance Minister last Monday.
In his inquiry, MP Ibrahim highlighted that under the Constitution, discrimination based on political ideology is prohibited when dismissing individuals from any state employment, with the exception of political appointees designated by the President under Article 115. The MP further questioned the legal basis and justification for the reported intimidation and unlawful dismissal of Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) members currently employed at state-owned enterprises.
Regarding the details of the case, allegations have surfaced that disciplinary action was taken against employees who participated in the recent MDP Chairperson election campaign and the North Hithadhoo constituency by-election activities. Abdulla Sodiq (Sobe), who secured the North Hithadhoo seat, stated that 10 individuals involved in his campaign have been dismissed from their jobs so far.
Furthermore, reports have surfaced regarding the suspension of seven employees from the Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company (MIFCO) for welcoming former President Mohamed Nasheed during his travels to various islands for the MDP chairperson election campaign.
The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has expressed deep concern over the intimidation and dismissal of state-owned enterprise employees for political reasons. In response to this and other unlawful actions by the government, the MDP National Congress passed a resolution on Monday night to launch nationwide protests.
