President-Elect Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's spokesperson Mariya Ahmed Didi, stated on Thursday that discussions are underway to form his cabinet consisting of 22 ministries.
Mariya said that additional information regarding the cabinet will be announced post the presidential inauguration on November 17. No further details were revealed.
President-Elect Solih requested political parties in the coalition to present nominations for the cabinet of ministers, during a meeting held this week.
While Solih intends to select all the ministers from among the nominated individuals, rumours claiming that appointments have already been made recently began to circulate on social media.
These rumours have been refuted by a credible source, which informed local media outlet Mihaaru that the list currently circulating on social media has not been finalized.
The cabinet will be formed according to proportions agreed between Solih and the leaders of the political parties included in the coalition prior to the presidential election. Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) will form 40 percent of the cabinet, Jumhooree Party (JP) will form 25 percent while Adhaalath Party will receive 15 percent. The faction of former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom will form 20 percent of the cabinet.
Concerns have been expressed regarding the administrative cost and additional political posts created by forming 22 ministries. Several leading members of political parties have expressed divided opinions on the issue.
The cabinet of outgoing President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom initially included 15 ministries. However, the Ministry of Transport was later dissolved, bringing the number down to 14.
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