Councilors' salaries increased to incite public anger, and this administration will propose a reduction: MP Ghafoor

Member of Parliament for Hanimaadhoo constituency, Abdul Ghafoor Moosa, has stated that the previous decision to increase councilors' salaries was intended to incite public anger, and predicted that the current administration will eventually propose a reduction in their pay.

Speaking at Monday's parliamentary sitting, MP Ghafoor stated that if a council with a revenue of 6 or 7 million Rufiyaa increases its members' salaries, it would be left with no funds for island development. He emphasized that any salary increments should only be implemented after an increase in the government grant.

Noting that councilors are well aware that a salary increase would not ultimately benefit them, MP Ghafoor stated that this administration will eventually propose a reduction in council salaries.

At the same time, MP Ghafoor severely criticized the government for reversing its own reforms and reverting to previous policies.

Introducing a destination tax only to abolish it before implementation is exactly what happened with the cigarette tax. Mr. Speaker, this is truly excessive. In a nation of educated and learned people, it is appalling that a government would engage in such disgraceful conduct. Will this country never see a different administration? This has become an unbearable burden and a catastrophe for the people.

Abdul Ghafoor Moosa

MP Ghafoor noted that the decision to increase councilors' salaries was intended to incite public anger, questioning why the government lacked the courage to also raise the salaries of city councilors and mayors.

Furthermore, MP Ghafoor stated that the country is currently witnessing the consequences of being governed by an "incompetent and disorganized" leadership. He further asserted that President Muizzu’s administration lacks order, discipline, and justice, alleging that the government is acting arbitrarily and doing as it pleases at any given moment.

"Honorable Speaker, this too is a nation that stands under its own flag. There must be some level of respect shown to this nation's flag, its national anthem, and its citizens. Things are being conducted without any regard for established principles, even in the presence of foreigners. Honorable Speaker, the public is being misled even on matters that are clearly visible."

Abdul Ghafoor Moosa

MP Ghafoor stated that this is not how a state should function or progress, emphasizing that affairs must be conducted with absolute clarity and transparency.

In addition, MP Ghafoor expressed concern, stating that none of the public's needs are being met today.