Maldives Parliament approved the reappointment of four ministers following a reshuffle by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu. The reshuffle involved merging ministries and changing responsibilities, and was confirmed during a special Parliament session.

The changes followed the closure of the Ministry of Housing on December 26. Housing duties were transferred to the Ministry of Construction, while planning duties were moved to the Ministry of Finance.

The reappointments are as follows: Dr. Ali Haider, former Housing Minister, is now the Minister of Higher Education. Dr. Mariam Mariya, the former Higher Education Minister, is now the Minister of Agriculture and Animal Welfare. Moosa Zameer is now the Minister of Finance and Planning, with expanded responsibilities. Dr. Abdulla Muththalib is the new Minister of Construction, Housing, and Infrastructure.

The reappointments were discussed on Thursday and voted on Monday. Dr. Haider received 63 votes in favor, Dr. Mariya and Dr. Muththalib received unanimous approval with 70 votes each, and Moosa Zameer received 69 votes in favor.

Dr. Mariya’s move to Agriculture and Animal Welfare follows the resignation of Dr. Aishath Rameela, who stepped down due to health reasons.