Issue of delayed disability allowance payments submitted to Parliament
A formal matter has been submitted to the People’s Majlis seeking to hold the National Social Protection Agency (NSPA) accountable for delays in distributing disability allowances. Highlighting that these payments are essential for the basic needs of many, MP Kudu noted that the inconsistencies are causing significant financial hardship for families. Consequently, the government has been urged to establish a permanent mechanism to ensure that these vital funds are disbursed by a fixed deadline every month.
Member of Parliament for North Galolhu, Mohamed Ibrahim (Kudoo), speaks during a press conference. | RaajjeMV
A motion has been submitted to the People’s Majlis seeking to hold the National Social Protection Agency (NSPA) and relevant government authorities accountable over delays and inconsistencies in the disbursement of state disability allowances.
In a letter addressed to Speaker of the Parliament Abdul Raheem Abdulla on Wednesday, Mohamed Ibrahim (Kudoo), the MDP Member of Parliament for the North Galolhu constituency, highlighted that Article 45 of the Constitution of the Republic of Maldives mandates the state to provide special assistance and protection to persons with disabilities. He further noted that Section 19(a) of the Act on the Protection of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and Provision of Financial Assistance guarantees every person with a disability the legal right to receive financial aid or allowances provided by the state.
However, the letter noted that the disability allowance provided by the state through NSPA has recently not been deposited consistently on the scheduled dates.
Furthermore, the letter highlighted that as this allowance is the sole financial resource many persons with disabilities rely on for medical treatment and essential personal needs, the delay in disbursement is causing immense financial and psychological distress for both the recipients and their families.
The letter therefore calls for the National Social Protection Agency (NSPA) and other relevant authorities to be held accountable through the appropriate parliamentary committee. It further urges the government to ensure a permanent mechanism is established to guarantee that these funds are consistently deposited by a fixed deadline each month.
