Government dismisses allegations of politically motivated dismissals under the guise of staff reductions!

The Parliament has decided to reject a resolution alleging that the government is using cost-cutting measures and workforce streamlining as a pretext to carry out politically motivated dismissals of state-owned enterprise employees.

During Wednesday's parliamentary sitting, a vote was held on whether to accept a resolution submitted by Kendhoo MP Mauroof Zakir. The resolution was rejected by a majority of 45 members present and voting. Only six members voted in favor of accepting the resolution.

In the resolution, Mauroof stated that Article 20 of the Constitution of the Maldives stipulates that every individual is equal before the law and is entitled to equal protection and benefit of the law. He further noted that the equal application of the law is a fundamental right guaranteed to every citizen.

The resolution notes that Article 37 (a) of the Constitution stipulates that every citizen has the right to engage in any employment or occupation of their choice.

Furthermore, the resolution notes that Section 21 of the Employment Act stipulates that an employee shall not be dismissed unless there is reasonable cause related to their failure to maintain work ethics or fulfill responsibilities essential to the proper functioning of the workplace, even after measures have been taken to improve their performance or conduct.

The resolution states that despite the government’s announcement several days ago regarding a decision to reduce the workforce of state-owned enterprises by 33 percent, no action has been taken with sincerity, transparency, or fairness. The member also expressed grave concerns over the sudden dismissal of a large number of employees from their positions.

They are:

• It is no coincidence that those being dismissed from their jobs are exclusively citizens expressing dissent against this administration and President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, as well as individuals participating in the political activities of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP).
• The dismissal of these employees is being carried out without the valid justification required under the Employment Act.
• These actions are being carried out in total disregard of established norms, principles, laws, and regulations, while also violating the internal policies and procedures of the companies involved.
• At a time when the national economy is in decline and citizens are facing increasing financial hardships, the mass dismissal of employees will have a direct and adverse financial impact on a significant number of low-income households.

The member stated that while the government is carrying out these actions openly and the public is bearing the resulting hardships and burdens, the administration continues to deny the reality of the situation.

The resolution states that during a press conference held on June 29, the Head of State denied these allegations and asserted that those being dismissed from their jobs were individuals involved in theft and the destruction of state property. It further noted that by leveling such false accusations against numerous citizens, the leader has clearly violated the constitutional oath taken in the name of Almighty Allah to protect the rights of the people.

The resolution submitted by Kendhoo MP Mauroof Zakir states that the government's decision to downsize state-owned enterprises as a cost-cutting measure is being exploited as a tool to penalize individuals who do not support the administration.