Resolution claims employees dismissed under ‘cost-cutting’ measures targeted for govt dissent

A resolution has been submitted to the Parliament on Wednesday alleging that the government is using cost-cutting measures as a front to dismiss individuals who are perceived to be critical of or unsupportive of the government.

The first reading of the resolution submitted by opposition MDP’s Kendhoo MP Mauroof Zakir was held during Wednesday’s parliamentary sitting.

The resolution states that despite a considerable period having passed since the government announced plans to reduce the number of political appointees and employees by 33 percent, there has been no indication that the process is being carried out through a transparent or fair mechanism. Instead, it raises concerns that employees are being dismissed without due process for expressing dissent towards the administration and President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, or for participating in activities organized by the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP).

The resolution further alleges that such dismissals are being conducted without the "just cause" required under the Employment Act and are in breach of the internal human resources regulations of state-owned enterprises.

Mauroof stated that the mass termination of employees during a period of economic challenges and financial strain places additional pressure on middle-income families. He noted that the Employment Act clearly prohibits dismissals unless there is a legitimate reason related to an employee’s conduct or ability to perform their duties. The resolution highlights Parliament’s constitutional responsibility to ensure accountability of the executive branch and seeks to determine the position of fellow lawmakers regarding the government’s current approach to employment protection.

The submission of the resolution comes amid increasing claims from the opposition that the administration is using the possibility of dismissal and suspension as a means of discouraging political activism.

The MDP has alleged that more than 80 employees have been "victimized" by the current administration so far. The party has held demonstrations in support of the affected workers and stated that its legal team is pursuing legal action, with over 60 cases already submitted to the Employment Tribunal.

The government, however, has rejected these claims.