President-elect Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has confirmed that the new government will consist of 22 ministries and that 95 of the speculations regarding his cabinet are accurate.
Speaking to state media on the occasion of Republic Day, the President-elect said his government had many ministries because it wanted to do focused work. He said his government would deliver on its promises, despite the increased number of ministries.
"I have been saying that an efficient government will run even if there are many ministries. This team will fulfill the promises made at every podium," Muizzu said.
Dr, Muizzu acknowledged that opinions about the new government would vary among the public, asserting that key positions in his government would be occupied by individuals committed to executing his directives without seeking external validation.
"The lists that are coming out are about 90 percent correct. Ninety-five percent are probably correct. There are minor changes in the names. It's a small world. No matter how much you try to keep it a secret, you tell your closest person to keep it a secret. Then, that person would tell his closest associates," he said of the cabinet members.
Muizzu said his government will have the highest number of women in senior positions in the government, although there are few women in his cabinet. The new government has decided to hand over the management of six important state companies to six women, he said.
The President-elect said appointments were based on education and experience in relevant fields. However, the appointees include individuals who are considered to be experienced in the managerial sector, he said.
"There will be some newcomers. However, there would not be any appointees without at least a first degree. There will be nine PhD holders and eight master's degree holders. I have full confidence in every one of them," he said.
Muizzu said his government would say no to corruption in the true sense of the word. He said he would take action against anyone who committed corruption, whether it was a minister or a company executive.
The President-elect said although the new government will have more ministries, it would have fewer political positions than previous administrations.
