SOE leadership changes to strengthen governance, president says
The President said the quality of public services cannot improve without addressing issues in governance.
President Dr Mohamed Muizzu said on Monday that leadership changes in government-owned companies are being carried out to improve governance and ensure transparency.
The remarks were made at an event held in Hulhumalé Phase Two, where Housing Development Corporation (HDC) launched its new masterplan and website featuring a whistleblowing tool.
The President said that changes in company leadership are intended to promote a system free from corruption. He referred to the recent resignation of HDC Managing Director Ibrahim Fazul Rasheed following corruption allegations related to land and flats as an example of the outcomes of such reform efforts. A new managing director has since been appointed.
President Muizzu said state-owned companies, ministries, and public institutions must operate transparently. He stated that corruption is not something he would knowingly permit and that his administration intends to take firm action against it.
"I want government companies and ministries and institutions to operate in a transparent manner," the President said. "Corruption is something we all say no to. It's not something I would knowingly allow anyone to do. It's something I really want to stop without any question."
He called on state entities to prioritise integrity and improve service delivery by eliminating corrupt practices.
"We are here to serve. The people have entrusted us with responsibilities. We benefit from our livelihoods and receive salaries. This must not be an opportunity for personal gain. It is our responsibility to deliver honest and accountable service through a governance-based system," he said.
The President said the quality of public services cannot improve without addressing issues in governance. He acknowledged the steps being taken by HDC and other government companies to implement internal reforms.
He added, “In this way, everyone will work together to lead companies, ministries, and various government institutions to ensure a transparent, manageable, and governance-based administration.”
HDC’s new website was launched during the event. It includes a whistleblowing feature that allows users to report misconduct anonymously.
