Some members of the government within the Public Accounts Committee in Parliament have expressed their opposition to the proposed salary cuts for senior officials as part of the government’s economic reform agenda.
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s plan includes a 10 percent salary reduction for political appointees, parliament members, judges, and heads of independent institutions for two years.
However, Committee Chairperson and Maamigili MP Qasim Ibrahim stated that cutting salaries during a time of rising living costs would harm the government’s reputation and lead to negative outcomes.
He recommended exploring alternative cost-cutting measures instead of reducing salaries. Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Dhigurah MP Ahmed Nazim, also opposed the salary cuts, noting that due to legal limitations, only four institutions could adjust their salaries, resulting in a mere MVR 14 million savings annually.
He suggested merging certain state institutions, such as the Maldives Media Council and the Maldives Broadcasting Commission, which together spend MVR 18 million each year.
Additionally, he proposed combining the National Integrity Commission and the Human Rights Commission to enhance state savings.
Qasim further recommended dissolving the Road Corporation, estimating that this could save MVR 40 million. PNC MP Ahmed Saleem (Red Wave Saleem) supported a more thorough review of state expenditures and proposed inviting Finance Ministry officials for further discussions.
A decision on this matter is anticipated on February 20. Parliament has the authority to amend the salaries of ministers, judges, heads of independent institutions, and parliament members.
