News Desk
MALÉ, Maldives — The Peoples Majlis voted Monday to strip former presidents of their monthly state-funded allowances, a move that cuts off a long-standing perk worth 175,000 rufiyaa ($11,300) per month.
The amendment to the Former Presidents’ Allowances and Protection Act was introduced by PNC lawmaker Mohammed Shahid on behalf of the government. It passed with 68 votes in favour, a decisive margin that underscored the administration’s push to rein in spending.
For years, Article 8 of the law guaranteed former heads of state a monthly stipend, along with offices, staff, and other facilities to support what was described as “social work for the benefit of society.” That provision is now set to be repealed. If enacted, the change would eliminate all state expenses tied to maintaining the offices of former presidents.
The bill also tightens rules around eligibility. If a former president is elected again or takes up another public office, he will not receive the allowance during that period. Protection and security, once guaranteed, will no longer be automatic if a former president resides abroad.
Vice presidents were not left out of the debate. The amendment clarifies that only the one who has completed a full five-year presidential term will qualify for allowances.
Under the existing law, a president who served one term was entitled to 50,000 rufiyaa per month. Those who served more than one term received 75,000. In addition, a separate 50,000 rufiyaa was allocated to cover expenses. All of these payments are now subject to reduction.
President Dr. Mohammed Muizzu announced earlier this year that the government would review allowances granted to former leaders and members of parliament. Monday’s vote marks the first concrete step in that direction.
The decision reflects a broader effort to cut costs at a time when the state budget faces mounting pressure. It also signals a shift in how Maldivian politics treats its former leaders—once shielded by law, now asked to give up privileges that critics say no longer serve the public interest.
