The Office of the President-elect has formed a seven-member committee to draft next year's state budget.
At a press conference, Spokesperson Mohamed Firuzul that the committee has submitted a request to obtain the necessary information from the Ministry of Finance, including the current fiscal situation of the country and the forecast for next year. He also said that President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has assured the President-elect's team of the government's full cooperation in the budget formulation. As such, the 2024 state budget will be drafted in accordance with the requirements of the President-elect.
Additionally, Spokesperson Firuzul expressed concern over receiving information that some state agencies and companies are recruiting and promoting officials as well as creating new positions during the transitional period. He added that the transitional committees have not visited the state agencies but will send requests for information.
Moreover, Parliamentary Group (PG) Leader of Mohamed Aslam has assured that main ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) will give the Office of the President-elect its full cooperation in the budget drafting process. Majority Leader Aslam said that MDP is prepared to hold the new government accountable but will not obstruct its work during the budget drafting process. He added that the party will assist in holding the President-elect's swearing-in ceremony.