MP calls for audit on proposed purchase of Ensis fish factory

Opposition MP for Hulhumale South, Dr Ahmed Shamheed, has called for a special audit and independent valuation of the Ensis Fisheries factory in Hulhumale before its proposed sale to state-owned Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company (MIFCO).

Speaking in Parliament on Monday during the debate on the Finance Committee’s report on a separate audit into Maldives Ports Limited’s diesel purchases, Dr Shamheed said the government’s planned acquisition of the Ensis factory had raised concerns, with some figures, including former President Abdulla Yameen, alleging that the deal could benefit specific individuals.

The government has confirmed that discussions are underway with Ensis Fisheries for the sale of the factory, a fact acknowledged by both MIFCO and Ensis.

Dr Shamheed said Parliament had a responsibility to examine such transactions before they were finalised, adding that preventive oversight was more effective than responding to issues after they occurred.

“When this factory opened, it was said to be valued at USD 15 million. Now they say the selling price is USD 40 million,” he said. “I call for an independent audit and independent valuation.”

He also questioned whether the state currently needed the facility, noting ongoing financial pressures. He pointed out that the State Electric Company (STELCO) lacked funds, had unpaid taxes, and had experienced two power outages in the Malé region. He added that the government had not allocated MVR 660 million owed to state companies and agencies.

“If the state has the funds to buy the Ensis factory, it should first pay outstanding bills,” Dr Shamheed said. “If this is a factory that the state needs after that, I have no problem with the purchase. But there is not only one factory in the Maldives.”