Opposition MDP Files No-Confidence Motion Against Mohamed Saeed
Minister of Economic Development, Transport and Trade Mohamed Saeed speaking at a press conference held at the President’s Office on July 14, 2026 | Photo: President’s Office
All 13 MPs representing the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) have submitted a no-confidence motion against Economic Development, Transport and Trade Minister Mohamed Saeed, citing alleged violations of constitutional duties and seeking his removal from office.
The motion, submitted to Parliament today, invokes Article 101(a) of the Constitution, which provides for the removal of a Cabinet minister through a no-confidence vote.
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The MDP MPs argue that Parliament has lost confidence in Saeed over alleged failures to fulfil his constitutional responsibilities under Articles 132, 134 and 136.
The motion raises concerns over the continued shortage of US dollars, with the opposition claiming the black-market exchange rate has risen above MVR 21. It also criticises the Government’s failure to achieve a previously stated target of bringing the exchange rate below MVR 15.42 and alleges that delays in cargo clearance and commercial port operations have contributed to higher prices.
The MPs also accuse Saeed of failing to manage state funds and property with integrity, citing spending on investment forums and state events held locally and overseas. They further point to MVR 6.56 million reportedly spent on the Development Bank of Maldives by March 2025 despite the bank not having commenced operations.
The motion alleges that Saeed has failed to provide adequate answers when questioned in Parliament, including over a previously announced USD 400 million expected to enter the economy through bunkering services.
The MPs also raise concerns over amendments to the Special Economic Zone Act, particularly provisions relating to townships and the proposed Maldives Residence-by-Investment programme. They allege these measures could undermine national sovereignty and create risks relating to money laundering and tax evasion.
The motion further lists several projects announced under Saeed’s ministry that the MPs claim have stalled, including the Maldives Economic Gateway project in Ihavandhippolhu, the proposed Economic and Financial District in Funadhoo, a proposed monorail system, the relocation of oil storage facilities, the Development Bank of Maldives and the Maldives International Financial Centre.
The MPs argue that these issues amount to breaches of Cabinet responsibilities under Articles 132, 134 and 136 of the Constitution and have called for Saeed’s dismissal.
