Abdul Samad Memorial Hospital grants two days off per week to its staff following series of protests by employees
Attendants at Dr. Abdul Samad Memorial Hospital in Thinadhoo City recently staged a protest after their previous entitlement of two weekly days off was revoked under a new pay framework. Amidst growing allegations of workplace discrimination, the hospital management has now reversed the decision, reinstating a uniform policy for off days to ensure equity among staff. Although the hospital's CEO initially resisted the change, the grievances of the employees at this major healthcare facility have been addressed, leading to a resolution of the dispute.
From the protest held by employees at Dr. Abdul Samad Memorial Hospital. | RaajjeMV | RaajjeMV
Dr. Abdul Samad Memorial Hospital in Thinadhoo City has begun granting staff leave days equitably following protests by employees over the withholding of their entitled time off.
The policy regarding off-days was revised last November. Although staff previously received two days off, the hospital's CEO directed that this be discontinued, citing that the new pay framework does not provide for such an arrangement. A hospital employee who spoke to RaajjeTV stated that it remains unclear how or why the policy was changed. The employee further alleged that there is significant discrimination among the staff.
He stated that the issue was eventually resolved following protests by the attendants. According to him, the hospital's CEO, Ahmed Ashraf, initially maintained that the two-day off policy would not be granted, even in the face of staff demonstrations. He further noted that the CEO reiterated this stance upon returning from an overseas trip, though the decision has since been reversed. Additionally, it was reported that several employees were summoned to the CEO's office. They were allegedly accused of acting in a manner intended to discredit both the hospital and President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.
Dr. Abdul Samad Memorial Hospital currently employs 93 nurses and 22 attendants. According to a staff member, employees were entitled to two days off even prior to the implementation of the new pay framework. The employee further noted that days off were granted equitably even during periods of significant staffing shortages. Consequently, they argued there is no justifiable reason why the same policy cannot be maintained now.
Dr. Abdul Samad Memorial Hospital is one of the busiest healthcare facilities in the region, serving the entire population of Gaafu Alif and Gaafu Dhaalu Atolls. As a vital hub for medical services, the hospital caters to thousands of people daily, providing essential healthcare to approximately 22,000 residents across both atolls.
