Gov’t Refuses to Reveal Names of Dismissed Political Staff

The President’s Office has defended its decision to withhold the names of 248 political employees dismissed as part of fiscal reforms, citing privacy protections under the Right to Information Act. 

The dismissals were announced as a cost-cutting measure to reduce government expenditure.

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In response to a request from a private individual for details of the dismissed employees and their associated ministries, the President’s Office clarified that such information is classified as personal. Officials argued that disclosing the ministries could indirectly reveal identities, violating privacy safeguards enshrined in the law.

The decision to cut political staff forms part of a broader strategy unveiled by President Mohamed Muizzu in October to address state financial challenges. The reductions, expected to save the government MVR 5.7 million per month, are among measures aimed at curbing public spending.

Despite the projected savings, the government has faced mounting criticism over perceived delays in streamlining the political workforce. Observers argue that swift action is needed to address ongoing fiscal challenges effectively.