State not in a position to pay hefty allowances: President

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has said the country’s financial situation is significantly worse than it appears, indicating to the large sums of money currently being spent on allowances for former presidents and members of parliament.

Speaking during the “Rayyithunna Eku” podcast, organized by the President’s Office, President Muizzu stated that while he believes former presidents should be able to live with comfort and dignity, however, the current level of spending is difficult to justify given the state of the economy.

President Muizzu emphasized the need to make changes to the benefits allocated to former presidents, suggesting that some of these allowances should be scaled back.

"Therefore, the benefits given to former presidents needs to be changed. Some allowances need to be reduced, I believe, given the situation in the country," he said.

He also pointed out that MPs receive significant allowances during their terms, which many in the public perceive as excessive.

“At the same time, people do not think it’s fair for MPs to continue receiving high allowances after their term ends. There's a strong public sentiment that these benefits should be lowered or revised.”

The President also highlighted on the issue of retired government employees who continue to receive monthly retirement scheme allowances while working in other institutions. He proposed that these payments be temporarily halted if the retired individual returns to the workforce, and then reinstated once they stop working again.

President Muizzu stated that once Parliament resumes after its current recess, amendments addressing these concerns will be proposed and necessary changes will be implemented.

Earlier this month, the President held discussions with PNC MPs, who hold a supermajority in Parliament, and suggested changes to the allowances granted to former presidents and MPs.

This issue has drawn significant public attention, particularly on social media, where many have voiced concern over government spending in this area. According to figures published under the Access to Information Act, health insurance alone for former MPs has cost more than MVR 18 million over the past decade.

This issue has drawn significant public attention, particularly on social media, where many have voiced concern over government spending in this area. According to figures published under the Access to Information Act, health insurance alone for former MPs has cost more than MVR 18 million over the past decade.

This issue has drawn significant public attention, particularly on social media, where many have voiced concern over government spending in this area. According to figures published under the Access to Information Act, health insurance alone for former MPs has cost more than MVR 18 million over the past decade.