Some ruling party lawmakers have expressed concern about the possible political damage from President Mohamed Muizzu's proposed plan to decrease the allowances of former MPs and Presidents.
In a message to the People's National Congress (PNC) MPs' WhatsApp group on Monday, Muizzu wanted to clarify their position on decreasing the allowances of former MPs and Presidents.
"I think we should decrease the financial allowance paid by law to former MPs. And also decrease the allowance to former Presidents. That is what the people want. We are the people's representatives, servants," Muizzu wrote.
Most MPs supported his proposal, but a few lawmakers expressed concern. They include Muizzu's wife, Sajidha Mohamed's brother, and Mahchangolhi North MP Ibrahim Mohamed (Janab).
Janab said decreasing allowances is "falling for the trap" set by the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) members.
"Don't be fooled by the MDP bots. Decreasing MPs' salaries and allowances will directly affect the vote," he said.
He noted that the majority of MPs, including him, were not operating their private businesses.
Milandhoo MP Hassan Mufeed warned against following the opinions of a few journalists. He said the ruling party will face political damage from the decision.
Dhaandhoo MP Mohamed Fazeel said there is no benefit in reducing the allowance.
"I don't think we will get anything by doing this. The people complain that the MPs have no power," Fazeel said.
"We all have to remember that we will become former MPs one day. So it is wise to think carefully before making a decision."
He also stated that there are many former MPs in the ruling party and that decreasing their allowances means risking their support for the party.
Feydhoo MP Ibrahim Didi said the entire country must be reformed if the MPs' allowances are decreased.
"Former police and soldiers get the same amount as their salaries after retirement. All police, soldiers, wives, children and parents get health insurance. We are always talking about what MPs get. I think we must check how it is done in neighbouring countries," he said.
Holhudhoo MP Abdul Sattar Mohamed said double pension, retirement benefits and insurance policies must also be changed.
Mahibadhoo MP Ahmed Thoriq wrote about how the Ramadan allowance for MPs was decreased in the 18th session of the People's Majlis to get more public support.
“The Ramadan allowance of MPs was cut based on popular opinions, and four [ruling party] MPs were re-elected," he said.
Some MPs who supported Muizzu's proposal said decreasing the allowances of former MPs and Presidents would increase support for the party.
