SATV, Kathmandu, 12 - There has been increasing public concern regarding the large number of political staff across various government institutions, with allegations that many receive substantial salaries without performing corresponding duties.

Information obtained by Sun through a Right to Information request indicates that the Ministry of Economic Development currently employs 40 political staff. They include:

Economic Minister 8 state ministers – The President’s Office website lists only four state ministers, with information regarding the remaining four not available 10 deputy ministers – The President’s Office website lists only five deputy ministers, with information regarding the remaining five not available 9 senior political directors 10 political directors 1 assistant political director Registrar of Companies

Of the total MVR 177 million allocated to Economic Ministry in this year’s budget, MVR 16.7 million had been expended as of the second day of this month.

Based on data disclosed to date, the Ministry of Sports, Fitness and Recreation has the highest number of political staff, with more than 300 individuals employed in such roles.

The public has expressed considerable dissatisfaction regarding the hundreds of political positions across various ministries. Additionally, there is increasing criticism concerning the appointment of inexperienced individuals to highly remunerated political roles within state-owned enterprises.

While the current administration asserts that the total number of political appointees is 700, the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) disputes this figure, alleging that the actual number is closer to 2,000.