MDP submits resolution alleging SOE job cuts target govt critics
It also alleges that employees are being dismissed without grounds permitted under the Employment Act.
Top Stories
A resolution alleging that the government's workforce reduction programme at state-owned enterprises (SOEs) is being used to dismiss political opponents and critics was submitted to the People's Majlis on Wednesday.
The resolution was introduced by Kendhoo MP Mauroof Zakir of the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), with its first reading held during Wednesday's parliamentary sitting.
The resolution states that although several days have passed since the government announced plans to reduce the state workforce by 33 per cent, there is no evidence that the policy is being implemented in a transparent or fair manner.
Instead, it alleges that the ongoing dismissals have raised a number of concerns.
According to the resolution, those losing their jobs are primarily individuals who have criticised the current administration or President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, or who have participated in MDP political activities.
It also alleges that employees are being dismissed without grounds permitted under the Employment Act, that the dismissals are being carried out without following relevant regulations or the internal policies of state-owned enterprises, and that large-scale job losses during a period of economic pressure could have financial consequences for many households.
The resolution further notes that the Employment Act requires employers to have lawful grounds related to an employee's conduct or performance before terminating employment.
It states that the matter has been submitted to enable Parliament to consider the issue as part of its constitutional responsibility to oversee and hold the executive branch accountable.
