Gov’t Orders Councils to Cut Spending Amid Cost-Cutting Efforts

The Minister of Cities, Local Government, and Public Works, Adam Shareef Umar, has issued a directive to all council bodies, instructing them to reduce their spending in support of the state’s recently announced cost-cutting initiatives.

In a letter addressed to council authorities, Minister Shareef highlighted the state’s ongoing efforts to manage economic challenges and mounting state debt. He urged councils to prioritise necessary spending and avoid expenditures on sports tournaments, transportation, and ceremonies.

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Minister Shareef specifically advised against unnecessary trips abroad and recommended halting planned sports tournaments and events. He also suggested that meetings should be conducted online instead of requiring travel to Malé City.

The minister expressed gratitude to the council bodies for their cooperation in these efforts.

In response to the recent economic downturn, the government has announced a series of austerity measures aimed at reducing state expenditure. These measures include the cancellation of all celebratory activities planned for this year’s Maldives Independence Day.