Ghafoor: Aasandha, NSPA needs to function independently for equality in service provision

Hanimaadhoo MP Abdul Ghafoor Moosa states Aasandha Company and National Social Protection Agency (NSPA) need to function independently in order to ensure equality in the provision of its services to all citizens.

While debating the amendment to the Pension Act—proposed by North Galolhu MP Mohamed Ibrahim (Kudoo) to allow pension payments for individuals undergoing treatment for serious illnesses—during Monday’s parliamentary sitting, Ghafoor emphasized the need to carefully contemplate on the retirement fund. He added that the retirement fund in the Maldives was established, as in other countries, to ensure that retirees are able to lead a dignified and honorable life.

Ghafoor pointed out the existence of Aasandha and NSPA in the Maldives, citing a system to treat serious illnesses should be established within these two institutions.

“If a solution for this matter is sought through the Pension Fund, it will end up being a huge wrong,” he said.

“It is of utmost importance to work within the Parliament to identify a solution for this within NSPA and Aasandha. The issue at hand prevails in the Maldives, however, connecting it to the Pension Fund as a solution would put all the burden on the Pension Fund,” he added.

Ghafoor, noting MVR 4 billion is incurred for Aasandha and NSPA on an annual basis, emphasized that the best course of action is to reform the Aasandha and NSPA system to ensure easier access for treatment of serious illnesses.

“Based on what is happening today and what was seen during previous administrations, I see the need to transform NSPA and Aasandha to independent institutions. Honorable speaker, only then will treatment be available for an individual based on their illness instead of who they are,” he added.

Ghafoor strongly criticized the practice of providing medical treatment through Aasandha and NSPA based on an individual’s social or political standing. He emphasized that it is fundamentally wrong, stating that everyone—regardless of their political beliefs—should have equal access to treatment funded by public tax money.

The amendment submitted by Kudoo on October 1^st seeks to address a critical gap in existing legislation and alleviate the substantial financial and psychological burdens faced by these patients and their families.

In this regard, Kudoo pointed out the absence of clear provisions within the current Pension Act for those suffering from severe health conditions.

To rectify this, Kudoo has proposed an amendment that would mandate the Pension Office to establish a team of specialist doctors. This team would be responsible for confirming serious illnesses and issuing medical certificates, enabling individuals to receive their pensions as swiftly as possible, irrespective of their age or years of service.

Furthermore, the proposed amendment would compel the state to prioritize these individuals, ensuring that pensioners receive their payments within 30 days of application.