Over 40,000 Employees in SOEs; Minister Assures Dismissals Are Not Politically Motivated

Minister of Finance And Public Enterprises Hassan Zareer has stated that the dismissal of employees is not based on political affiliation or ideology, despite allegations that numerous staff members aligned with the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) are being terminated from their positions.

Responding to a question from North Galolhu MP Mohamed Ibrahim (Kudu) during Tuesday's parliamentary sitting, Minister Zareer stated that the current administration does not condone the dismissal of employees at state-owned enterprises based on their political affiliation or the views they express. The Minister further asserted that no such instructions or directives have been issued to terminate employees on these grounds.

However, the Minister stated that the necessary instructions are being issued to improve the financial standing and strengthen the corporate governance of state-owned enterprises. Minister Zareer further clarified that, beyond such policy directions, no specific instructions have been given regarding day-to-day operations, including the dismissal or downsizing of staff.

Responding to the query, the Minister stated that 4,938 employees have been recruited to state-owned enterprises (SOEs) since the current administration took office. He noted that as of last month, the total number of employees across state-owned companies stood at 41,767. The Minister further detailed that in 2018, there were 18,776 employees in state companies. He highlighted that by the end of the period spanning 2018 to 2023, that figure had risen to 36,729.

Minister Zareer further stated that during the process of rightsizing state-owned enterprises, it is essential to remember that those affected are Maldivian citizens. He emphasized that all citizens must be protected regardless of their political affiliations. The Minister noted that the rightsizing process will include measures such as redundancy packages. Additionally, he mentioned that those who are laid off will have opportunities to pursue self-employment.

Furthermore, as we implement right-sizing measures, we must remember that every individual affected is a Maldivian citizen—a mother, a father, or a child. Therefore, regardless of political affiliation, our primary responsibility must be the protection of the Maldivian people.

Hassan Zareer

Despite Finance Minister Zareer's assertions, a significant number of employees at state-owned enterprises who are affiliated with the opposition or do not support the government are being dismissed from their positions. Furthermore, staff members who participate in opposition activities have also been terminated. These actions have drawn widespread public criticism toward the government.