Zameer says committed to PNC, stands firm with President Muizzu
He stated that he resigned due to health reasons and said it would not have been appropriate to remain in office under those circumstances.
Former Finance Minister Moosa Zameer has said his political beliefs remain unchanged and that he continues to support President Dr Mohamed Muizzu following his resignation from the Cabinet.
Zameer made the remarks on Tuesday night while addressing a gathering organised by the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC), marking his first public appearance since stepping down as Minister of Finance and Public Enterprises.
Speaking at the event, Zameer said many people had contacted him following his resignation seeking an explanation for his decision.
He stated that he resigned due to health reasons and said it would not have been appropriate to remain in office under those circumstances.
“There are highly capable individuals for the position. They must be given space, and one must step aside. I am someone who always returns whenever needed,” Zameer said.
“I have not disappeared from the scene. Here I am, standing firm with President Mohamed Muizzu.”
Zameer said there were no political reasons behind his resignation and stressed that his commitment to the party remained unchanged.
During his speech, he also spoke about the government’s economic policies and debt management efforts.
According to Zameer, the administration had faced concerns over the country’s financial position when it took office but had since managed to meet major debt obligations.
He said the government had settled approximately USD 1.2 billion in debt during its first two years and had done so without entering an International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme.
Zameer also referred to the recent upgrade of the Maldives’ sovereign credit rating by Fitch Ratings from ‘CC’ to ‘CCC-’.
He expressed confidence in his successor, Hassan Zareer, describing him as an experienced public official capable of continuing the ministry’s work.
President Muizzu appointed Zareer as Minister of Finance and Public Enterprises on Monday, shortly after accepting Zameer’s resignation.
One of the key developments during Zameer’s tenure was the repayment of the Maldives’ USD 500 million sovereign sukuk, which matured in April. Including interest payments, the total amount settled was approximately USD 525 million.
Following the repayment, Fitch Ratings upgraded the Maldives’ sovereign credit rating and stated that the successful settlement of the sukuk had reduced short-term default risks and eased external financing pressures.
