Petition calls to slash salary of lawmakers

Signatures are being collected for a petition calling to slash the salary of lawmakers.

The petition, which can be signed online, calls to slash the salary of lawmakers, discontinue health insurance for family members of lawmakers, discontinue committee allowances and discontinue benefits to former lawmakers.

The petition expresses concern over the excessive financial burden placed on the Maldivian economy due to the high salaries, committee allowances, and premium health insurance benefits received by lawmakers at the time when the nation is grappling with significant economic challenges, including growing national debt and budget deficits.

As such, the petition underscored the need to take steps to reduce unnecessary state expenses.

It was emphasized that lawmakers do not perform work that justifies the high salary and other benefits they receive.

At present, lawmakers receive a monthly salary of MVR 82,500. In addition to their salaries, lawmakers receive substantial committee allowances, significantly increasing their overall earnings. 

They are also entitled to a premium health insurance package far superior to the Aasandha scheme available to ordinary citizens. The health insurance package applicable to all ASEAN nations is also available for lawmakers' family members.

The petition stressed that the disparity was unfair and unjustifiable, especially when the average Maldivian is struggling with rising living costs and financial instability.

Hence, the petition called on the People’s Majlis to take immediate action to revise these policies and ensure that public funds are allocated more responsibly. 

“Let us work together to build a more equitable and sustainable future for all Maldivians,” the petition read.

Notably, debates have been held on multiple previous occasions to slash the salary of lawmakers, including in the last 19^th parliamentary assembly.

However, they have produced no results due to lack of support from lawmakers.  

Earlier, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu proposed to slash the salary of lawmakers by 10 percent. However, the ongoing 20^th parliamentary assembly rejected the proposal, citing it cannot be implemented due to the way existing laws are framed.