MP seeks inquiry into MACL salary and sponsorship allegations
According to the submission, MACL is alleged to be spending around MVR 2.4 million each month on salaries for political staff who do not attend work.
A case has been submitted to the People’s Majlis seeking an investigation into allegations that Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) is paying salaries to political appointees who do not report to work, as well as concerns over payments made to media outlets.
The submission was filed last Wednesday by Kanditheemu constituency Member of Parliament Amin Faisal of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP).
According to the submission, MACL is alleged to be spending around MVR 2.4 million each month on salaries for political staff who do not attend work. The MP stated that documents relating to the matter are in circulation and that the issue has raised public concern.
The submission states that paying individuals who do not perform duties increases operational costs and affects the company’s returns, including dividends payable to the state.
It also raises concerns over payments made to media organisations under advertising arrangements. The submission notes that some of these outlets have limited reach.
The MP stated that Velana International Airport currently faces constraints in handling flight operations and services, and questioned the need for further advertising expenditure.
The submission argues that the matter involves misuse of state funds and refers to provisions in the Constitution, Penal Code, Anti-Corruption Commission Act, Public Finance Act and Employment Act.
Amin Faisal has requested that the relevant parliamentary committee summon MACL management for questioning.
President Mohamed Muizzu, responding to related allegations on Monday, said he had not received information regarding such hiring practices.
