The new CEO of Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company (MIFCO), Dr. Vitaly Lyubimof, has taken a strong stand against political influence by appointing Ahmed Nasir as the company's new General Manager.
MIFCO stated today that as part of the changes being brought to the company's operations by the new CEO, Ahmed Nasir has been appointed as the General Manager of the company's Human Resources Department. Nasir, who has experience and skills in human resource management, was considered the most suitable person to run the department at this time, MIFCO said. This appointment is the first major decision regarding employees made under Dr. Lyubimof's leadership, according to MIFCO. Although Nasir was appointed to the post on the 15th of this month, he will officially assume his responsibilities next Sunday, MIFCO added.
The responsibilities of the new General Manager include assessing the skills and capabilities of all MIFCO employees, and this work will be carried out directly under the guidance of the CEO, MIFCO stated. The purpose of this is to increase work efficiency and align MIFCO's human resources with the company's strategic goals, MIFCO also said.
MIFCO revealed that external political forces attempted to exert influence and advocated for a specific candidate to be appointed to the General Manager position. Despite disagreements arising from political pressure, the CEO did not allow this opportunity. This is the first time since the new CEO took office that attempts were made to exert political influence on the company's operations, MIFCO noted.
In response to this situation, the CEO took a firm stance and issued a statement. In the statement, the CEO said that no political influence or attempts to exert influence on MIFCO's operations will be allowed in the future. He also promised to disclose the identities of those involved in such activities across all public platforms. Furthermore, the CEO assured that he would not hesitate to take all necessary measures to prevent such incidents from recurring. This includes seeking assistance from higher authorities to dismiss those involved in exerting political influence.
"I will take immediate action every time an attempt is made to exert any political influence on the company's operations. I will not give any opportunity for such influences. And I will disclose the information of those trying to influence the company, bringing full transparency," the CEO stated.
This firm "statement" from the CEO demonstrates his commitment to maintaining a professional and independent management structure at MIFCO, free from external political influences. It also confirms adherence to a sustainable policy of preventing political influence in MIFCO's operations, particularly in candidate selection. It is an assurance that these policies will be fully implemented regardless of political pressures.
Dr. Vitaly Lyubimof assumed the position of MIFCO CEO on the 10th of this month. The CEO is currently evaluating MIFCO's operational system, and upon completion, a detailed program aimed at the company's sustainable development will be presented to relevant senior government officials, MIFCO said. This program will outline how MIFCO's future will be shaped and progressed under Dr. Lyubimof's leadership, according to MIFCO.
"The commitment to work transparently, independently, and professionally is a core part of the new CEO's vision for MIFCO. This is how the company will strive to remain free from political influence while strengthening its position in the Maldivian fisheries sector," MIFCO stated.
It is a well-known fact that political influence has always existed within MIFCO, negatively impacting the company's operations. There have also been numerous complaints regarding practices contrary to management principles. Specifically, some have noted that individuals in high positions have historically gained financial benefits contrary to business principles. Therefore, reforming MIFCO was among the first tasks initiated by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu after assuming office.
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has stated that he understands the root problems facing MIFCO and how the company falls into debt. His top priority was to appoint a foreign expert as MIFCO's CEO—someone independent, experienced, sincere, and with a track record of running top-tier companies, without ties to the local fisheries industry. The President previously mentioned that MIFCO can only be revived by entrusting it to an experienced executive who has managed world-class companies. Dr. Vitaly Lyubimof was appointed as MIFCO's CEO in accordance with this vision. This marks the first time in MIFCO's history that a foreign CEO has been tasked with running the company.
