The Maldives Parliament has voted to advise President Mohamed Muizzu to appoint Ahmed Munawwar, the Finance Minister’s Advisor, as the new Governor of the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA). The vote, held today, saw the participation of 78 out of 85 lawmakers present, with seven members abstaining.
Munawwar, who previously served as Finance Minister during former President Abdulla Yameen’s administration, has been recommended by the Public Accounts Committee following a thorough review. Maamigili MP Qasim Ibrahim, presenting the committee’s report, noted that Munawwar had undergone rigorous questioning and verification processes. He was awarded a score of 94.43 percent by the committee, which strongly recommended his appointment as MMA Governor.
Qasim Ibrahim highlighted Munawwar’s extensive experience in the financial sector, pointing to his prior roles within the MMA and his tenure as Finance Minister. “It is evident that no president has ever proposed a more suitable candidate for this position,” Qasim remarked, highlighting the committee’s confidence in Munawwar’s capabilities. Qasim Ibrahim himself held the position of MMA Governor from August 2005 to April 2007.
The recommendation to appoint Munawwar comes on the heels of the removal of the previous governor, Ali Hashim, who was appointed by the MDP government. Hashim’s dismissal followed a parliamentary recommendation, paving the way for Munawwar’s potential appointment.
As the President considers this parliamentary advice, the financial community and political observers are keenly watching the developments, anticipating how Munawwar’s appointment might influence the Maldives’ monetary policy and financial stability.
