Dr. Vitaliy Lyubimov, the newly appointed Chief Executive Officer of Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company (MIFCO), has taken a strong stance against political interference in the state-owned enterprise.

Speaking after his first week in office, Lyubimov vowed to publicly expose any individuals attempting to exert undue influence on the company’s operations or decision-making processes.

In a press statement released on Thursday, MIFCO announced the appointment of Ahmed Nasir as the General Manager of its Human Resources Department, marking the first major personnel change under Lyubimov’s leadership.

Nasir, chosen for his extensive expertise in human resources management, has been tasked with conducting a comprehensive evaluation of MIFCO's workforce.

This review aims to align the company's human resources with its strategic objectives and optimize operational efficiency.

The appointment, however, was not without controversy and according to MIFCO, external political forces attempted to influence the selection process, lobbying for another candidate who was ultimately not chosen.

Addressing these challenges, Lyubimov issued a strong warning:

He further pledged to escalate such matters to higher authorities if necessary and to take all measures needed to prevent recurrence.

MIFCO emphasized that Lyubimov's firm stance underscores his commitment to fostering a professional management structure free from external influence.

Lyubimov also expressed confidence in the current leadership team, highlighting their capability to drive sustainable development within the fisheries sector.

In addition to addressing internal issues, Lyubimov is overseeing a comprehensive evaluation of MIFCO's operational processes.

The findings will guide the development of a strategic program for the company’s sustainable growth, which will be presented to government officials in the near future.

Appointed on December 9 to replace Ahmed Samah Rasheed, Lyubimov aims to restore trust in MIFCO while reinforcing its role in the Maldives' fisheries sector.

His leadership, he noted, is centered on transparency, professionalism, and independence, ensuring the company remains resilient against political manipulation.