Former MP for Feydhoo Constituency Mohamed Nihad has been appointed as a State Minister at the Tourism Ministry.
Nihad, who won his seat by competing as an MDP candidate, left the party and signed for the ruling PNC late last year was appointed as a State Minister last Saturday.
Two others act as State Ministers at the Tourism Ministry.
His appointment came after President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu announced last month that the government intends to decrease the number of political appointees as part of its measures to curtail costs to decrease government expenditure.
President Muizzu further stated the cost-cutting measures also include reducing expenditure or not holding ceremonies to mark various occasions.
The President highlighted that authorities have been instructed not to hold vehicle tours and receptions for the upcoming Independence Day celebrations. He further said that only an official reception would be held to mark the country's independence day and that this would greatly reduce government expenditure.
President Muizzu added many more steps to reduce government costs would be taken in the coming days.
