Political parties have denied government statements that it is conducting discussions with coalition partners regarding reshuffling the cabinet.
President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih recently announced plans to reshuffle the cabinet and informed ruling coalition partners of his intent via letter and phone.
Speaking at a press conference held by the President's Office on Saturday night, Spokesperson for the President's Office Mohamed Mabrook Azeez said the President had acknowledged that changes need to be brought to the cabinet during a recent press conference. The outcome of the recently held local council election also indicate that the citizens wish for changes, said the spokesperson.
"The president is currently in discussion with coalition partners regarding a reshuffle. Issues of government leaders is one of the many aspects that need to be taken into account in bringing changes to how the government is run, while the cabinet is a sub point that follows," said Mabrook.
Speaking to AVAS, some leaders of political parties said despite the government's statement, no discussions have taken place between the parties and the government after the parties were informed of the impending reshuffle. Although the intent was informed to parties via a letter signed by the President's Chief of Staff, it did not mention which ministries will be affected and what the changes will be, said the parties.
A coalition party representative said if any ministers are being dismissed, their errors must be informed. Reshuffling the cabinet is not a small task, and could effect maintenance of the coalition. Therefore, it is important for the president to take it upon himself to carry out serious discussions with coalition partners, he added. Noting that cabinet ministers representing parties other than main-ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) have already lost cabinet seats, the current rumors that the ministers being dismissed are those representing coalition parties would cause more friction within the coalition, he said.
Sources told AVAS that new ministers will be appointed to Environment Ministry, Fisheries Ministry, Science and Communication Ministry and as Minister at the President's Office. According to the source, Fisheries Minsiter Zaha Waheed will be replaced by current Environment Minister Dr. Hussain Rasheed Hassan, and Policy Secretary at the President''s Office Aminath Shauna will be appointed as the Environment Minister. Former cabinet minister Mahmood Razi will be appointed as Science and Technology Minister.
However, when asked regarding the reshuffle, Spokesperson Mabrook said all changes will be brought after discussion with coalition leaders and that no further information can be given at this time.
