The President's Office has removed the profiles and information of State Ministers and Deputy Ministers serving in government ministries from its official website.
This change follows an announcement by President Mohamed Muizzu on April 20, stating that future appointments to political positions within the government would be based on educational qualifications and competence.
Prior to this decision, the names and photographs of several State Ministers and Deputy Ministers were listed on the President's Office website.
However, even then, the website did not feature a comprehensive list of all political staff at those levels. Following the recent update, no information regarding officials in these categories is available on the site.
During a press conference on April 20, Muizzu announced that a set criteria would be applied when appointing State and Deputy Ministers to government ministries.
He noted that candidates for State Minister positions would be required to hold a Master’s degree, while those appointed as Deputy Ministers must possess at least a first degree.
Muizzu further emphasized that in any future instances where an appointment is necessary, the individual's education and experience in the relevant field would be reviewed.
He claimed that while Article 115 of the Constitution grants him the authority to make appointments, future selections would be strictly "merit-based."
In addition, Muizzu noted that efforts are underway to downsize the government as part of broader measures to reduce state expenditure.
He revealed at the time that the government is working to reduce staff numbers based on performance and aims to cut the workforce in state-owned enterprises (SOEs) by 33 percent.
Muizzu admitted that the government had previously provided employment to individuals for the purpose of securing votes during recent elections.
However, he provided assurances that no further jobs would be granted for political purposes or in connection with election campaigns.
Providing state employment to gain political advantage or to influence election outcomes is legally prohibited. Furthermore, under Article 115 (f) of the Constitution, the President is empowered to create positions only when absolutely necessary to fulfill the duties and responsibilities of the office.
