President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has announced that the government plans to reduce some of the financial benefits currently provided to former presidents and members of parliament.
In a post on his official X account today, President Muizzu said the government intends to propose changes to existing laws to scale back certain privileges for former officeholders.
While no exact timeline has been set, the proposal has already been submitted to the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) parliamentary group earlier this week. With a parliamentary supermajority, the PNC is in a strong position to advance the amendments once Parliament resumes sessions.
Alongside the proposed cuts, President Muizzu confirmed that the government is drafting legal and regulatory measures to standardize pension benefits for retirees from public service roles. Under the new rules, anyone who returns to public service while receiving a state pension would have their benefits temporarily suspended during the period of reemployment.
The announcement comes amid growing public concern over the cost of maintaining allowances and benefits for former and current state officials. Data reveals that over MVR 18 million was spent on health insurance for former MPs over the last decade. Meanwhile, current MPs reportedly spent MVR 1.5 million on VIP lounge services in a single year, fueling public outcry and widespread discussion on social media.
Currently, former MPs qualify for a monthly allowance starting at age 55, while former presidents also receive monthly financial support from the state. These benefits have been a frequent topic of debate among citizens calling for reform and greater transparency in government spending.
The government has not yet announced when the proposed amendments will take effect. Citizens and observers are watching closely as Parliament prepares to consider the proposals once the recess ends. The proposed changes are expected to bring adjustments to both pensions and allowances, shaping how public funds are allocated to former state officials in the future.
