Police: Salary increase for numerous officers just three days before elections was a coincidence
Despite police claims that the recent pay adjustment was a pre-planned administrative move, the timing of the decision ahead of the elections has drawn significant public criticism, even as the change is expected to increase the salaries of approximately 90 percent of the workforce.
A glimpse from the flag-hoisting ceremony held in Male' to commemorate the 93rd anniversary of the Maldives Police Service. | Police Media | police media
The Maldives Police Service has stated that it is a mere coincidence that a large number of officers received salary increments just three days before the local council elections and the referendum on merging two national elections.
The police issued this statement amid public criticism regarding salary adjustments made ahead of the elections.
In a circular issued on Tuesday, the Maldives Police Service announced that uniformed officers have been transitioned to the second tier of their position-based allowance. This adjustment follows the completion of two years since the integration of police personnel into the National Pay Framework, in accordance with established guidelines. The police emphasized that this change was implemented under previously finalized regulations and procedures.
Speaking to RaajjeMV regarding the matter, a police media official stated that this allowance had been previously approved and scheduled for disbursement upon the completion of two years since the implementation of the new pay framework. The official further clarified that it was merely a coincidence that the allowance was being issued just three days before the local council elections and the referendum vote.
According to a police circular, this adjustment applies to uniformed officers who have served two years in their current rank and grade, provided they have maintained an average performance appraisal score of over 75 percent for two consecutive years. A media official stated that this change will result in a salary increase for only a small number of officers.
However, speaking to RaajjeMV on the condition of anonymity, several police officers confirmed that these changes have resulted in salary increases for all personnel with more than two years of service. They estimate that approximately 90 percent of the force will see a pay rise following these adjustments.
Furthermore, as the allowance is calculated based on the basic salary, reports indicate that senior police officials will receive the most significant pay increases under this change. With the elections approaching, various political figures are expressing concern over the decision to grant such a substantial salary hike at this time.
