PNC MPs: Economy does not permit salary increments for councilors

Ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) lawmakers, on Wednesday, said that while they support the principle of increasing salaries for local councilors, the Maldives’ current economic conditions do not allow this at this time.

A resolution, submitted by opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP)’s South Galolhu MP Meekail Ahmed Naseem on May 11th, noted that the salaries of council presidents are currently lower than those of council secretaries general. It further highlighted that vice presidents earn less than executive officers, and that councilors in general receive lower remuneration than some of the staff they oversee.

The resolution argued that successive amendments to the Decentralization Act have significantly expanded the responsibilities of councilors, making it a state obligation to ensure adequate compensation. It further stated that salary increases are essential to strengthening the decentralized governance system, retaining skilled individuals in local leadership roles, and improving service delivery at the island level.

During the parliamentary debate on the resolution, PNC’s Vice President, Baarah MP Ibrahim Shujaau said the Maldivian economy was in a stronger position when the MDP assumed office in 2018. He argued that had the MDP intended to raise councilor salaries, it could have done so during the 19th Parliament, when it held a clear majority.

Shujaau described the submission of the resolution in the current parliament as “surprising,” questioned its intent, and labeled it a “deceptive” move. He stressed that the PNC would not support the resolution.

“The [current state of the] country does not allow for salary increments for political figures. However, as I indicated earlier, this is a matter we support in principle, and I believe we will see it realized within this parliamentary term, God willing,” Shujaau said.

South Feydhoo MP Ibrahim Didi (IB) noted that civil servants carry out some of the most demanding work within councils, while adding that the current administration remains committed to improving councilor remuneration in due course.

North Thinadhoo MP Saudulla Hilmy also stated that individuals should be compensated in line with their workload to enable a dignified standard of living.

“However, at this time, our economy does not permit salary increments across various levels,” he added.

Following the debate, a vote was held on whether to admit the resolution for further consideration. The 20th Parliament, in which the PNC holds supermajority, voted to reject the motion. Only 14 lawmakers voted in favor, while 48 voted against.