It has come to light that the wife of main ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) MP for North Hulhumalé constituency Hussain Shareef, who had passionately criticized the Housing Development Corporation (HDC) for being an overstaffed entity, has been appointed to a position within the company carrying a monthly salary exceeding MVR 50,000.

RaajjeMV understands that MP Shareef’s wife, Shina Wajeeh, was appointed as the Chief of the Managing Director’s Bureau at HDC.

Sources indicate that her appointment was made at a Director-level capacity, with a reported monthly salary of MVR 55,000.

Shina, who recently commenced her new role, was also seen participating alongside HDC Managing Director Ali Zuhair in a PSM-led telethon organized to provide aid to Sri Lanka, during which HDC presented a monetary donation.

Many observers suggest that Shareef’s earlier criticism of HDC stemmed from his wife not having secured employment. After various forms of pressure reportedly exerted on the government, the pro-government lawmaker is said to have ensured her appointment, after which his criticisms of HDC ceased entirely.

The current administration has seen a significant increase in political appointments compared to previous governments, with a notable surge in individuals appointed to state-owned companies through political influence.

A key presidential pledge by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu was to limit political appointments to no more than 700. During his presidential campaign, Muizzu had promised to reduce government expenditure and decrease the number of political positions. However, the current reality appears to contradict these pledges.

According to figures released by the government last July, there were 922 political appointees at that time.

Opposition parties, however, allege that the actual number of political appointees in this government exceeds 3,000.