The opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has announced its support for the government's economic bills aimed at cutting government spending and reforming the economy.
Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, MDP’s Parliamentary Group member Dr. Ahmed Shamheed said the MDP will back three bills submitted under the govenrment’’s economic reform agenda.
"Among them is the subsidy reform, which we certainly support. However, lowering the fish purchase price is not a proposal we support," Shamheed said.
Dr. Shamheed emphasized the need to reduce political positions and jobs given for political purposes in state-owned companies in order to cut government expenditure. It is unacceptable to spend close to MVR 800 million every month on salaries alone, he said.
Dr. Shamheed also called for serious efforts to gain the trust of foreign financial institutions. The MDP would fully cooperate with the government in these efforts, he said.
Also speaking at the press conference, Kendhoo MP Mauroof Zakir voiced concern over the Parliament, where the ruling party holds a clear majority, rejecting a motion submitted by MDP to determine the number of political positions within the government.
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu had promised that the number of political posts in his government would not exceed 700. However, the opposition alleges that the government has created nearly 2,000 political posts.
