Finance minister summoned over dismissals of MDP supporters from SOEs

Finance Minister Hassan Zareer has been summoned to the People’s Majlis to answer questions regarding allegations that supporters of the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) are being dismissed from positions in state-owned enterprises (SOEs).

The request was submitted by the Member of Parliament for North Galolhu, Mohamed Ibrahim, known as Kudoo, amid reports that employees of state companies have been terminated due to their involvement in recent MDP political activities.

Complaints have emerged following allegations that individuals employed in SOEs were dismissed after participating in campaigning for the MDP chairperson election and the upcoming Hithadhoo North parliamentary by-election.

In the question submitted to Parliament, Mohamed Ibrahim referred to legal protections against political discrimination in public employment. He noted that, apart from political appointments made by the President under powers granted by Article 115 of the Constitution, state and public employees cannot be hired or dismissed on the basis of their political views or party affiliation.

The lawmaker has asked the minister to clarify what policy, if any, allows state-owned enterprises to threaten or dismiss employees who are registered members of the MDP. He also questioned the reasons behind the reported dismissals.

Zareer was appointed Minister of Finance and Public Enterprises last week. The parliamentary summons marks the first occasion on which he has been called to answer a question from a member of the legislature since assuming office.

Meanwhile, the campaign team of former President Mohamed Nasheed has previously announced that it would provide legal assistance to workers who lose their jobs after publicly supporting him during his campaign for the MDP chairperson election.

The government and the state-owned enterprises concerned have not publicly responded to the allegations.