Parliament Rejects Resolution Seeking Salary Increase for Councillors

Parliament has rejected a resolution calling for higher salaries for local councillors, with ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) lawmakers stating that while they support the principle of increasing remuneration, the country’s current economic situation does not allow for such changes at this time.

The resolution was submitted on 11 May by opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) MP for South Galolhu, Meekail Ahmed Naseem. It highlighted disparities in pay within local councils, noting that council presidents currently earn less than council secretaries general, while vice presidents receive lower salaries than executive officers. The resolution also stated that some councillors are paid less than staff members they supervise.

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The proposal argued that amendments made to the Decentralisation Act over the years have significantly increased the responsibilities of councillors and that the state has an obligation to ensure their salaries reflect those duties. It further stated that improved remuneration would strengthen decentralised governance, help retain qualified individuals in local leadership positions and improve service delivery at the island level.

During the parliamentary debate, PNC Vice President and Baarah MP Ibrahim Shujaau said the Maldivian economy had been in a stronger position when the MDP came to power in 2018. He argued that the party had ample opportunity to raise councillor salaries during the 19th Parliament, when it held a majority.

Shujaau said the current economic climate does not permit salary increases for political office holders, although he reiterated that the PNC supports the concept in principle and believes it could be implemented during the current parliamentary term.

South Feydhoo MP Ibrahim Didi said civil servants undertake some of the most demanding work within councils, while noting that the government remains committed to improving councillor remuneration when circumstances allow.

North Thinadhoo MP Saudulla Hilmy also said salaries should reflect the workload and responsibilities of employees and elected officials. However, he stated that the country’s economic conditions do not currently support salary increases across various sectors.

Following the debate, lawmakers voted on whether to accept the resolution for further consideration. The motion was rejected by the 20th Parliament, where the PNC holds a supermajority. A total of 48 members voted against the proposal, while 14 voted in favour.