TM Urges MPs to Amend Rules on Self-Determined Salaries

Transparency Maldives (TM) has urged Members of Parliament (MPs) to revise existing rules preventing them from autonomously determining their salaries and allowances.

In an official statement, TM expressed concern over the conflict of interest arising from MPs deciding on their salary increments. TM argued that this practice may compromise their integrity, especially as the current term approaches its conclusion.

Highlighting past efforts, TM pointed out that in 2019, it proposed amendments to the rules of procedure, advocating for a reduction in committee allowances and the establishment of a robust system to monitor MPs’ expenditures. TM emphasised its stance against additional allowances for committee work, considering it an inherent part of MPs’ responsibilities.

TM called for a unified method of determining salary increases to reduce class disparities and promote equality. It criticised the government’s current efforts towards pay harmonisation, arguing that recent changes in senior officials’ salaries contradict this objective.

TM highlighted the objective behind allocating high salaries to senior positions; to prevent conflicts of interest, corruption, and money laundering. It expressed concern that the bill is still under consideration in the Committee of Parliament, suggesting that salary increases without a strengthened accountability system might undermine its purpose.