Petition Seeking Repeal of MPs’ State-Funded Health Insurance Crosses 7,000 Signatures

An e-petition calling for the repeal of state-funded health insurance benefits for Members of Parliament has gathered over 7,000 signatures, more than three times the threshold required for the issue to be debated in the People’s Majlis.

The petition, submitted by a citizen called Midhuam Saudh, had received over 7,000 signatures with six days remaining in the signing period.

Under parliamentary regulations, e-petitions that receive at least 2,100 signatures qualify for debate on the floor of the People’s Majlis. Parliament is required to prioritise such petitions as matters of urgency and reach a formal decision on the issues raised.

The petition challenges provisions under which sitting MPs, their spouses and children under 18 are provided with medical insurance, while former MPs are entitled to continued medical coverage.

According to the petition, the insurance provides coverage for medical treatment in 19 countries and has cost the State nearly MVR 100 million in premiums.

The petitioner argues that the cost could increase significantly over time because former MPs are entitled to medical coverage after leaving office.

The petition also questions the provision of medical insurance exclusively to lawmakers at public expense, arguing that comparable coverage is not available to ordinary citizens.

It cites studies examining the 10 largest economies in the world and claims that none provides lifetime health insurance to former lawmakers.

The health insurance benefits are provided for under the Parliamentary Privileges and Powers Act.

Under provisions relating to financial benefits, sitting MPs, their spouses and children under 18 are required to be enrolled in a medical insurance scheme covering treatment in the Maldives, SAARC countries and ASEAN countries.

Separate provisions concerning service benefits provide former MPs with medical coverage equivalent to that available to sitting members.

The petition seeks the repeal of these provisions and an end to the existing arrangements for state-funded medical insurance for lawmakers and former lawmakers.

The petition was submitted while the People’s Majlis was considering changes to the health insurance benefits available to MPs.

A parliamentary committee meeting convened to review the issue was held behind closed doors, with the meeting reportedly conducted on the basis that the matter would not attract public interest.

The petition’s current signature count means it has already surpassed the threshold required for parliamentary consideration. If it reaches the required procedural stage, the matter will be brought before the Majlis for debate and a formal decision.