Maldivian delegation of 25 officials in Egypt, Govt spent USD 500,000!

Former President and Parliament Speaker, President Mohamed Nasheed revealed that the government spent a hefty sum for the government of Madives' delegations trip to Egypt to take part in the COP 27 summit.

Nasheed shared the details in the parliament Whatsapp group, stating that the government must have spent over USD 500,000 (MVR 7 million) to send the Maldivian delegation of 25 officials to attend the 27th Conference of the Parties of the UNFCCC (COP 27) in Egypt, hosted by the Government of the Arab Republic of Egypt.

Nasheed stated that of the 25 government officials that are in Egypt, most of them arrived in business class and the Vice President of the Maldives Faisal Naseem arrived in First Class. He added that the cost of their accommodation is very high as well.

Nasheed advised the parliamentary members not to travel on government expenses at a time when the national reserve is dwindling. He stated that MPs must lead with example.

President Nasheed described the expense as wasteful stating that just the minister and experts of the ministry should have been enough.

President Nasheed revealed that while 25 government officials are in Egypt, some are visiting Canada as well. Furthermore, he added that senior SOE management and ministers are visiting USA.

The state expenses have surged exponentially since President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih came into office and over MVR 200 million has been budgeted for next year.