PNC MPs seek pay raise amid strains

Members of Parliament (MPs) from the People's National Congress (PNC) have voiced their dissatisfaction with current parliamentary salaries, asserting that public perception of high remuneration is inaccurate and that their earnings are, in fact, low. This sentiment emerged during a General Committee meeting of the Parliament.

Abdul Latheef Abdul Rahman, PNC MP for the Alifushi Constituency, challenged the widespread belief that MPs receive MVR 85,000 or MVR 100,000 as salary. He clarified that the basic salary of an MP stands at MVR 42,500 and that the MVR 20,000 committee allowance is withheld when members are on leave.

Echoing this sentiment, PNC MP Ahmed Riyaz acknowledged the public's perception of high parliamentary salaries. However, he emphasized the significant expenditures incurred by members, stating that "at the end of the month it is very difficult." Riyaz highlighted the financial burden of living in the city, where many members reside, citing an average monthly rent of MVR 24,000 for a three-bedroom apartment, a cost incurred both before and after becoming an MP. He also criticized the misconception that members' salaries remain undeducted even if they do not attend parliamentary sessions.

Both MPs underscored the responsibility of members to advocate for a positive change in their salaries to improve their financial circumstances.

Discussions surrounding the reduction of parliamentary salaries have previously taken place within the Parliament, but such proposals have consistently failed to garner sufficient support from members.

Notably, the 20th Parliament determined that President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's proposal to reduce members' salaries by 10% due to financial limitations could not be implemented. This decision was made by the public accounts committee, citing inconsistencies with current law.

Currently, Members of Parliament receive a combined MVR 82,500 per month as salary and allowances, a figure determined by the members themselves through legislation.

A petition has also been submitted advocating for a reduction in members' salaries, the curtailment of health insurance benefits for them and their families, and a cut in allowances for former members.

The preceding 19th parliament also explored increasing the salaries of both members and state officials; however, these efforts were halted due to public criticism.

In addition to their salaries, MPs and their families are entitled to free medical treatment across all ASEAN countries.