Fayyaz claims HDC layoffs target opposition supporters
It is understood that the company has been reducing its workforce for about a month.
Former Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail has alleged that the Housing Development Corporation (HDC) is dismissing employees in breach of employment laws as part of its workforce reduction programme.
In April, the Ministry of Finance instructed the Privatisation and Corporatisation Board (PCB) to reduce staffing levels in state-owned enterprises by 33 per cent and recruit employees based on qualifications, skills and capability.
Since then, several state-owned enterprises have reduced their workforce. The MDP has alleged that employees being dismissed under the restructuring programme are being selected because of their political views.
In a post on X on Wednesday night, Fayyaz claimed HDC had abolished positions and dismissed employees without providing notice required under the law.
"Without even providing 24 hours' notice, hundreds of employees who support the MDP have been forced to leave their jobs," he said.
Fayyaz also alleged that the employees selected for dismissal were identified through lists prepared by Members of Parliament from the ruling People's National Congress (PNC).
He claimed experienced employees were being dismissed while political supporters were being recruited to fill positions.
"Targeting people because of their political views and taking away the income of families is an injustice," he said.
Fayyaz further alleged that the restructuring of state-owned enterprises was being used to dismiss employees who do not support President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, adding that those responsible would ultimately be held accountable under the law.
HDC did not respond to requests for comment from Dhauru regarding the allegations.
However, it is understood that the company has been reducing its workforce for about a month.
