Mohamed Amir, recently appointed as the Youth Associate for Feeali island in the Faafu atoll by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, has been drawing a salary for the past four months without fulfilling any official duties due to the absence of a designated office space.
Amir’s appointment to the role on March 17, 2024, came just before the People’s Majlis elections held in April 2024. Despite the formal appointment, no infrastructure, such as an office or youth center, has been established on Feeali island to support his role.
The employment verification receipt, signed by Ali Arif, Minister at the President’s Office for Presidential Affairs, outlines the position’s compensation: a monthly wage of MVR 8,000 and a living allowance of MVR 5,000, totaling MVR 13,000.
Amir has been receiving his monthly salary consistently, despite the lack of a functional office or any clear responsibilities. This situation raises concerns about public expenditure, particularly in a time when the Maldives is experiencing economic difficulties. The allocation of funds to salaries for political positions, coupled with payments to suspended deputy ministers, underscores the broader issue of escalating public spending amidst a challenging economic climate.
The absence of a youth center office not only highlights inefficiencies in the establishment of political appointments but also adds to the scrutiny of how public funds are being managed in the current administration.
