Retirees asked to declare state posts to Pension Office

Retired personnel from the Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF), police and civil service have been asked to inform the Pension Administration Office if they are holding another government position or have resigned from such a post.

In a statement issued today, Pension Office said retirement benefits would be suspended for retirees who are elected to public office or take up employment in government institutions or state owned enterprises during the term of their appointment.

Pension Office said MNDF, police and civil service regulations were amended last year to reflect the change. Under the revised rules, pension payments will be suspended from the month the individual takes up the post and will resume from the month following their resignation.

“Anyone who is currently holding another public service position after retirement, or who leaves such a position from January 2026, is requested to inform this office through the designated form or in writing,” the statement said.

There are 13 state agencies operating separate pension schemes. The national budget last year allocated MVR 272 million for these schemes, while MVR 266 million was spent on what the government has described as double pensions. Over the past five years, expenditure on double pensions has increased by MVR 70 million.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu decided last year to suspend pension allowances for retirees from MNDF, police and civil service during periods in which they hold government positions, prompting the amendments.