MDP submits no-confidence motion against Saeed

The opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has submitted a no-confidence motion against Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed to the People's Majlis.

The motion, submitted on Saturday, carries the signatures of 13 MDP members of Parliament.

According to the motion, the opposition is seeking the minister's removal on six grounds, including allegations relating to his performance in office, economic policy and the use of public funds.

Among the allegations are claims that Saeed failed to fulfil constitutional responsibilities assigned to cabinet ministers, failed to remain accountable to Parliament and engaged in activities prohibited under the Constitution.

The motion also accuses the minister of failing to implement economic policies to address the country's foreign currency shortage. It alleges that the US dollar shortage contributed to the parallel market exchange rate rising above MVR 21 and claims the minister downplayed the issue instead of taking steps to resolve it.

The MDP further alleges that state funds were used on overseas investor forums and ceremonial events during a period of fiscal pressure.

Another allegation relates to expenditure on the Development Bank. According to the motion, MVR 6.56 million had been spent on the institution by March last year before it had begun operations.

This is the second no-confidence motion the MDP has submitted against a cabinet minister during the current administration.

The party previously tabled a no-confidence motion against then Minister of Transport Mohamed Ameen, who now serves as Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation. That motion was defeated after the ruling People's National Congress (PNC), which holds a parliamentary supermajority, voted against it.