MP says parliament obligated to allocate COVID-19 funds without delay

MP for Maradhoo, Addu City, Ibrahim Shareef has called on the parliament to release funds to the government immediately to combat the COVID-19 virus situation in the country without delay. The MP said that it was an obligation placed upon the parliament which should not be delayed with excuses.

The MP was speaking in a parliamentary session where Finance Minister Ibrahim Ameer’s letter requesting amendments to the laws surrounding state financial responsibilities was the subject of discussion. MP Shareef stated that the parliament must pave the way for the government to overcome the situation.

“I call on this parliament, to release the funds to satiate the hunger of the citizens. Do not present excuses to not release the funds. That would be a massive betrayal to the citizens. It goes against the vow to protect the rights of the citizens.” Said MP Shareef.

Despite pledges of financial assistance from international institutions, the parliament should still bring amendments to the law until those funds are received, said MP Shareef.

“Some time will take before the aid is received, until then the funds must be sourced from MMA. It is imperative. The state has already obtained around MVR six billion from the MMA. Nothing has come out of it,”

“So allocating an additional four billion for the citizens, is an obligation upon the parliament. This isn’t something we should deliberate upon.” Said MP Shareef.

The letter sent by Finance Minister Ameer requested immediate action from the MMA, for the circulation of cash in the market and increase the spending capabilities of citizens. MP Shareef, in his speech, called on the government to move forward with the steps that can be taken right now.

Most of the MPs that spoke in today’s parliamentary session agreed with MP Shareef’s idea that funds must be released. Although, some MPs proposed that the funds should be released in a transparent manner, the details of which must be conveyed to the citizens. The MPs stated that the expenditure details must be shared with the governor of MMA and the Parliament.

Sessions of the legislature have already been scheduled to discuss and approve of the funds. On Saturday and Sunday, the parliament will hold back to back sessions for the purpose.