News Desk
MALE’, – In a significant policy shift aimed at retaining institutional knowledge, the Maldivian judiciary has formalised a framework allowing experienced staff to continue their service beyond the standard retirement age. The new regulations, published in the government gazette, outline the protocols for “re-employment” within the judicial sector, ensuring that the expertise of seasoned professionals remains available to the state.
The regulation, enacted under the authority of the Re-employment Act, seeks to bridge the gap between mandatory retirement and the continued need for experienced human capital in the courts and associated judicial bodies.
The opportunity to extend one’s career is open to individuals between the ages of 65 and 75. Eligibility extends beyond those currently approaching retirement; it also includes personnel who have retired within the past seven years-dating back to February 7, 2019-providing a pathway for former staff to return to the judicial fold.
Recognising the evolving needs of the workforce, the judiciary has introduced a multi-faceted approach to re-employment. Under the new rules, staff can be retained through three primary modalities:
- Retention: Maintaining the employee in their previous role.
- Reassignment: Placing the individual in a different position.
- Adjusted Responsibility: Modifying the scope of duties to better align with the individual’s capacity.
To accommodate the health and personal circumstances of older employees, the judiciary has introduced flexible working arrangements, including part-time options, flexible hours, and remote work (telecommuting) where applicable.
Employment under this scheme will be structured through 12-month renewable contracts. Each year, the continuation of the contract will be subject to a performance review, ensuring that standards of efficiency and professional conduct are maintained.
Regarding compensation, the regulations stipulate that salaries and benefits will be determined in accordance with the guidelines established by the National Pay Commission. Furthermore, these employees are entitled to 30 days of annual leave, standardising their benefits package to ensure fair treatment.
The implementation of this policy is expected to address the recurring challenge of “brain drain” within the judicial sector. By creating a formal mechanism for re-employment, the state aims to secure the continued mentorship and wisdom of veteran staff, which is considered vital for the smooth functioning and stability of the Maldivian legal system.
The regulations are effective immediately, marking a new chapter in human resource management within the judiciary as it seeks to balance the retirement of the older generation with the imperative of preserving professional excellence.
