Ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) North Hulhumalé constituency MP, Hussain Shareef, who had previously criticized the Housing Development Corporation (HDC) for being overstaffed, now finds his wife, Shina Wajeeh, appointed as Chief of the Managing Director’s Bureau at HDC with a monthly salary of MVR 55,000.
Shina, who recently started her new role, was also seen participating alongside HDC Managing Director Ali Zuhair in a PSM-led telethon organized to provide aid to Sri Lanka, during which HDC made a monetary donation.
Shareef’s earlier criticism of HDC reportedly stemmed from his wife not having secured employment. After exerting pressure on the government, the pro-government lawmaker is said to have ensured her appointment, after which his criticisms of HDC stopped entirely.
The current administration has seen a significant increase in political appointments compared to previous governments, particularly in state-owned companies, with many appointments reportedly influenced by political connections.
President Mohamed Muizzu had pledged during his campaign to limit political appointments to no more than 700 and promised to reduce government expenditure. However, the current situation appears to contradict these campaign promises, raising concerns over the growing trend of politically motivated appointments.
