Minister of Defence Mariya Ahmed Didi has stated Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) will be restructured and reshaped in a way the institution will be made answerable and operated transparently. She made the statement at a ceremony held to meet the military forces for the first time since being appointed as the defence minister.
Addressing the function, Defence Minister Mariya highlighted efforts by the defence forces to ensure security and peace were not performed in a manner it was well portrayed to the citizens. Noting MNDF is the first in line in matters of safety and security, Minister Mariya said most Maldivians are unaware of the role of the defence forces. In this regard, the minister noted the criticism MNDF face during a crisis or disaster and highlighted many are ignorant of the scope and stress that comes along when serving in the defence forces.
Furthermore, Minister Mariya called on all military personnel to refrain from all acts of corruption as the trust in the defence forces is vital for the security of the country. Revealing President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih aims to establish a professional military force, the defence minister reveals efforts are underway to achieve the goal. Speaking in this regard, Minister Mariya noted the government will provide all the support, in terms of authority, equipment and technical support, to ensure the military forces can operate in its full potential and capabilities.
Mariya Ahmed Did was appointed as the first female defence minister of Maldives and assumed her ministerial post on November 17.