MDP condemns layoffs against President's pledge

Sep 19, 2024, 5:37 AM
MDP leaders. -- Photo: Adhadhu

MDP leaders. -- Photo: Adhadhu

The opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has condemned the dismissal of employees from state-owned enterprises (SOEs) against the pledge made by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the country's largest opposition party said the dismissal of hundreds of employees against the pledges made during the presidential and parliamentary polls is unacceptable.

"Hundreds of employees of government companies are being laid off every day since the elections were over," the MDP alleged.

MDP further expressed concern as political appointments were increasing despite the worsening economic and financial situation due to the government's mismanagement and failure to implement reforms.

"This comes after a member of the PPM/PNC coalition [ruling coalition] threatened to start firing employees in government companies who do not support the government or President Muizzu,” the statement read.

MDP assured that it will continue to file cases with the relevant authorities to defend the rights of unfairly dismissed employees and called on the government to implement cost-cutting measures before laying off employees.

In recent days, hundreds of employees have been dismissed from SOEs, including over 60 fired from Road Development Corporation (RDC) and 731 contract staff from Fenaka.

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