Jabir says government should provide jobs regardless of elections, weather or political timing

MP Abdulla Jabir has said the government should continue creating jobs and expanding projects without linking employment opportunities to elections or seasonal conditions.

Speaking on SSTV’s Baaru Hathareh programme, Jabir said that if a lagoon is available for development, it should be dredged with the promised employment delivered. He argued that government projects should be increased and more people should be given work.

“I believe this government should give jobs to everyone, regardless of election, rainy day or sunny day,” Jabir said.

He added that gang fights and crime have declined since government‑owned companies began offering more jobs. However, he also noted that previous administrations had hired large numbers of people “in the name of having nothing to do.”

Jabir reiterated that more Maldivians should be employed across all sectors, saying this would benefit the country.

His comments come as the state‑owned Road Development Corporation (RDC), which has faced corruption allegations, announced a major recruitment drive on the 14th of this month. The company has opened applications for 150 positions across six islands.

According to RDC’s announcements, the highest number of vacancies are in Uligan and Rasdhoo, with 50 positions in each island. In addition, 24 jobs are open in Kashidhoo, 13 in Madifushi, 12 in Naifaru, and one position in Hinnavaru.

It has become common for governments to expand hiring in large state‑owned companies during election periods. Previous independent reports have noted that the use of government resources in this manner can facilitate corruption.  

Companies frequently associated with such hiring patterns include loss‑making Fenaka, as well as MACL, STELCO and RDC.