Maldives axes 228 government appointees as part of cost-cutting move
- In Reports
- 03:01 PM, Oct 17, 2024
- Myind Staff
Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu announced the dismissal of 228 political appointees from different government ministries. This move is part of a larger plan to cut down on government spending. The cost-cutting initiative is a crucial part of the administration's Economic Reform Agenda, which aims to address the country's increasing external and fiscal vulnerabilities.
"As part of the Economic Reform Agenda, I have today instructed to remove 228 political appointees from various government ministries within the next 15 days," President Muizzu said on Tuesday when he announced the decision on his official X account. This includes 7 State Ministers, 43 Deputy Ministers, 109 Senior Political Directors, and 69 Political Directors. It will save Rf 5.714 million per month from the government budget."
The move was further explained by the Maldives President's Office, which presented it as a necessary change to improve government operations. "This significant reduction in political appointments aligns with the President's broader efforts to ensure more efficient use of public funds," said the statement.
Muizzu's administration has continuously pushed for changes to boost the Maldivian economy and lower debt in the medium term, and the current government budget is MVR 49.5 billion for 2024. This most recent action is a part of the President's many endeavours since taking office. Earlier this year, Muizzu unveiled intentions to reform the Maldives' economic policies and create a development bank there in order to promote stability and progress.
Muizzu commended India's technological and innovative leadership during the India-Maldives Business Forum in Bengaluru on October 9. He also emphasised the importance of India-Maldives cooperation in developing the island nation's digital future. He outlined a number of significant projects, such as the introduction of the RuPay card and the integration of digital financial services, as well as the Maldives' dedication to multilateral cooperation and climate action.
Noting the Maldives' favourable business climate and cultural connections to India, Muizzu also urged Indian investors to look into opportunities in fields like sustainable tourism and renewable energy, "The Maldives offers an ideal environment for Indian investment, and their expertise can help us and their expertise can help us foster a sustainable future while supporting global climate action,” said Muizzu.
President Muizzu made his second trip to India this year during his five-day state visit, having previously attended Prime Minister Narendra Modi's swearing-in ceremony in June.
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