A job announcement has been published in the government gazette seeking 11 employees for the vice president’s residence.
The 11 employees sought for Hilaaleege – which are considered political rather than civil service posts – include two assistant chefs, three waiters, three maids, and three receptionists.
The assistant chefs will receive a monthly income of more than MVR8,000 whilst the waiters and maids will receive over MVR7,000.
Immediately after being sworn in on November 17, President Yameen announced that he and his vice president – Dr Mohamed Jameel Ahmed – would be fulfilling his campaign promise of only taking half of the MVR100,000 (US$6500) salary afforded to the head of state.
“The reason behind this is that Dr Jameel and I both live a simple life. No matter what has been said about us we are not wealthy. We want to be an example to others and lead by example,” Yameen said.
President Yameen also opted not to move into the president’s official residence of Muleeage, opting instead to remain in his personal residence.
The number of political appointees under the current administration has not been made public.
