News Desk
The Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee has voted to approve increased allowances and perks for high-ranking public officials, including the Speaker of Majlis, cabinet ministers, and island council members.
The decision was reached during Wednesday’s committee meeting following a proposal submitted under “Other Business” by Kelaa constituency ruling party Member of Parliament Abdulla Shareef and seconded by Funadhoo MP Mohamed Mamdhooh.
The committee approved adjustments aimed at restructuring executive and parliamentary allowances:
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Speaker of Majlis: The committee approved a monthly allowance increase of MVR 22,000 for the Speaker, raising the total monthly remuneration from MVR 73,125 to MVR 95,125. Proponents noted the adjustment resolves a pay disparity, given that the Deputy Speaker receives MVR 91,000 and regular MPs earn MVR 82,500.
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Cabinet Ministers: Rather than altering base ministerial salaries—which outpace those in independent institutions and the judiciary—the committee approved additional transport allowances. This comprises a MVR 2,000 petrol allowance, a MVR 12,000 allocation for driver salaries, and a MVR 3,000 living allowance for drivers.
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Island Councils: Local council presidents, vice presidents, and council members are set to receive an additional monthly allowance of MVR 5,000. Current baseline rates stand at MVR 25,000 for presidents, MVR 20,000 for vice presidents, and MVR 18,000 for members.
The adjustments advanced with overwhelming committee support, with Hanimaadhoo (MDP) MP Abdul Ghafoor Moosa serving as the sole dissenting vote.
“This is simply not the right time to be raising anyone’s salary or allowances.”
— Abdul Ghafoor Moosa, MP for Hanimaadhoo
The committee’s approval follows recent public petitions submitted to the Majlis regarding parliamentary perks and benefits, bringing executive and legislative compensation structures back into the spotlight. The proposals will now proceed through the parliamentary process.
