500 political appointees to be dismissed from ministries

Apr 16, 2026, 10:33 AM
President Mohamed Muizzu. -- Photo: President's Office

President Mohamed Muizzu. -- Photo: President's Office

President Mohamed Muizzu has decided to terminate 500 political appointees across various government ministries.

The decision to dismiss these employees was finalized during the first cabinet meeting held yesterday, following the appointment of new ministers.

Sources have informed Adhadhu that ministers shared the list of political staff slated for dismissal with the President. The list reportedly includes the names of the appointees and the administrative constituencies they represent.

According to sources, Muizzu addressed the cabinet meeting, stating that his previous approach had been to secure public support by providing employment to a large number of people. However, a participant at the meeting told Adhadhu that the President remarked that the public had rejected this approach in the recent elections.

While the current decision targets 500 employees within ministries, Adhadhu understands that political appointees in state-owned enterprises are also expected to face dismissals in the coming days.

The move to downsize political staff follows the resignation of 10 ministers earlier this week. 

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