President proposes cutting allowances for Ex-Presidents, MPs

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has announced the government's intention to propose legislative changes aimed at reducing benefits currently provided to former presidents and Members of Parliament (MP).

The President conveyed this decision in a post on X on Wednesday, amid increasing public scrutiny regarding the allowances paid to former officials.

In a message reportedly sent to the People’s National Congress (PNC) MPs' WhatsApp group last weekend, Muizzu expressed his desire to see these benefits curtailed, citing public demand.

The news has prompted widespread discussion on social media, with many users supporting the President's stance. Many have urged for the allowances to be cut entirely rather than merely reduced, with some even calling for similar reductions in allowances for police, army personnel, and judges, as well as the dismissal of political appointees within the government.

However, sources indicate that not all MPs within the PNC support the proposal. Sun has learned that Mahibadhoo MP Ahmed Thorig (Tom) and Maafannu South MP Abdullah Rifau have reportedly rejected the President's suggestion. While other MPs largely supported the motion, several also suggested that spending on judges and security services should similarly be decreased.

Despite some dissenting views, Sun has affirmed that the majority of MPs in the WhatsApp group expressed support for the President's position. With a supermajority of 75 MPs in the current 20th parliament, the PNC possesses the legislative power to enact such changes.

Criticism regarding benefits for former MPs has intensified recently, particularly in light of the deteriorating economic situation, which has disproportionately affected ordinary citizens.

Documents circulated on social media suggest that MVR 18.9 million was spent on health insurance for former MPs in 2014 alone, a benefit that began in 2013 alongside other allowances.

Monetary benefits for ex-MPs are typically received only upon reaching the age of 55. Those who serve one term are entitled to 30 percent of their salary, while those who serve two terms receive 45 percent. Many are now advocating for the complete elimination of these benefits, deeming them a wasteful expenditure.

Former presidents have been receiving allowances since 2009. A one-term president receives MVR 50,000 per month, while a two-term president is paid MVR 75,000 per month. Additionally, former presidents are allocated an extra MVR 50,000 for accommodation and approximately MVR 175,000 for office expenses.

With five living former presidents, the cumulative cost of these allowances is substantial, further fueling public criticism.