FAM Quietly Hires Staff Member with USD 2,800 Salary to Support Normalization Committee

The Football Association of Maldives (FAM) has appointed a new staff member with a monthly salary of USD 2,800 (approximately MVR 43,288) to support the work of the ongoing Normalization Committee—without issuing a public job announcement.

Appointment Approved by FIFA, Says FAM

Committee member Ismail Siman, who currently handles media communications for the Normalization Committee, confirmed the recruitment and emphasized that it had been authorized by FIFA. He explained that the decision was made to help expedite the committee's operations, with its mandate set to conclude on July 31.

"The hiring was carried out with FIFA’s approval, using a headhunt approach rather than an open application process,” Siman stated. “FIFA has given us the right to recruit staff in this manner.”

Why the New Hire Was Deemed Necessary

While FAM already has an Acting General Secretary, Mohamed Shujau, Siman noted that Shujau is managing a broad range of administrative responsibilities. As a result, the newly hired staffer will focus exclusively on matters related to the normalization process, allowing for more streamlined execution of the committee’s core objectives.

The decision reflects a shift in approach compared to earlier practices under former committee chair Ahmed Zuhoor, when appointments—including that of the General Secretary—were made transparently via public announcements and gazette notices.

No Public Recruitment Process Raises Eyebrows

In past instances, staff were recruited through publicly advertised processes to ensure transparency and equal opportunity. The lack of a public call for applications in this case has raised questions among some observers, particularly given the substantial salary involved and the use of international funding.

However, Siman maintained that the process adhered to FIFA guidelines and pointed out that the salary for the new staff member, like all committee-related operational costs, is covered by FIFA’s budget.

FIFA Also Covers Committee Salaries

Beyond staff appointments, FIFA also directly compensates the members of the Normalization Committee. According to Siman, each member receives a monthly salary of USD 4,000, while the committee chair is paid approximately USD 6,000. These payments are also handled through FIFA's operational funds.

As the July 31 deadline approaches, the committee continues to prepare for the transition of FAM leadership, a process that has been under close scrutiny by both local football stakeholders and international bodies.