MDP's claims regarding the number of employees to be dismissed are baseless and imaginary: Shareef
24 ޖުލައި 2026 | ހުކުރު 09:45The government spokesperson has dismissed claims by the MDP regarding mass layoffs at state-owned enterprises as baseless, characterizing the allegations as a political maneuver intended to manipulate public sentiment and tarnish the government's image. The spokesperson further clarified that ongoing efforts to restructure and strengthen corporate governance are aimed solely at enhancing the efficiency and quality of public services.
Government spokesperson Mohamed Hussain Shareef speaks during a press conference. | Presidents office
Government spokesperson Mohamed Hussain Shareef has dismissed the opposition MDP’s claims regarding the number of employees to be terminated from state-owned enterprises as baseless and purely fictional.
Shareef made these remarks in response to statements by former Economic Minister Fayyaz Ismail during an MDP press conference held on July 21, 2026. Fayyaz had claimed that the government’s decision to downsize state-owned enterprises by 33 percent would result in 14,733 employees being terminated and left without employment.
Responding to the matter, Shareef told state media that instead of basing their arguments on factual information, the MDP consistently attempts to incite public emotion.
Shareef stated that the MDP is working to create a negative perception of the government, initially focusing their rhetoric on housing issues. He further noted that they subsequently shifted their criticism toward the government's dollar policy.
However, he stated that since their initial objectives were not met, they are once again attempting to exploit public sentiment regarding employment. He further noted that these actions by the MDP are a calculated political maneuver to achieve a specific agenda.
Furthermore, Shareef stated that the efforts to streamline the management of certain state-owned enterprises and maintain staffing at optimal operational levels are aimed at ensuring the delivery of adequate services to the public.
Shareef's remarks come at a time when the dollar exchange rate has surged to 18.30 MVR due to a severe shortage, despite President Muizzu’s earlier pledges to lower its value. Furthermore, the government only released the "Gedhoruveriya" flats—which were completed during former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih’s administration—after withholding them for more than two years. Public outcry has intensified as citizens continue to voice their frustrations against the government over these pressing issues.
