President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced plans to amend legislation to reduce the benefits granted to former presidents and members of Parliament.
The decision comes amid public criticism of state expenditure on allowances for former officeholders. Earlier this week, the President told a group of ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) MPs that the payments made to former leaders should be reviewed.
In a post on X on Wednesday, he confirmed the government would propose legal changes to cut certain entitlements. He also said pension arrangements across the public service would be standardised.
“The rules will be amended so that when a person receiving pension benefits returns to public service, those benefits will be suspended for the duration of employment,” he wrote.
Current Entitlements
Under the Former Presidents’ Allowances Act, a president who has served one term receives MVR 50,000 per month, while those serving more than one term receive MVR 75,000. They also receive MVR 50,000 in living expenses and may claim up to MVR 175,000 per month in office costs if engaged in public duties.
The Privileges and Powers of Parliament Act grants service allowances to former MPs once they reach retirement age. Those who have served one term are entitled to 30% of an MP’s salary, while two-term members receive 45%. Former MPs are also entitled to the same medical coverage as sitting members and are issued an official passport.
Cross-Party Concerns
Concerns have been raised by both PNC and Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) MPs regarding individuals who continue to draw pensions while holding other jobs after leaving parliamentary service.
The proposed amendments are expected to be debated in Parliament, with the government stating that the changes are necessary to ensure fairness and reduce the burden on public finances.
