By Tourism Minister Ibrahim Faisal has been dismissed from his position, the President’s Office announced today. Economic Minister Mohamed Saeed has been temporarily assigned to oversee the Tourism Ministry until further notice.
The reason for Faisal’s removal has not been disclosed.
Faisal, who holds a degree in business management with a thesis focused on tourism, has been in politics for over a decade. He played a role in President Mohamed Muizzu’s presidential campaign before being appointed to the cabinet.
His appointment as Tourism Minister drew criticism due to his limited experience in the sector. However, Faisal had expressed a commitment to developing opportunities for young people in tourism and supporting entrepreneurship.
Faisal has denied allegations that his appointment was influenced by his familial ties to Speaker of Parliament Abdul Raheem Abdullah, a close ally of President Muizzu. He maintained that he was chosen for his ability to lead the ministry.
The Tourism Ministry, a critical component of the Maldivian economy, is now under the interim management of Minister Saeed as the government navigates this transition.