Island Council of Isdhoo island says that Finance Ministry had refused release salaries for the Council staff, citing budgetary constraints.

Isdhoo Council President Ibrahim Khaleel said the 19 staff had are yet to receive their salaries for the month of October.

Khaleel added the authorities had failed to include salaries and administrative costs when the budget was first assigned. He said there was no guarantee that salaries can be paid in the next two months.

The Council President further noted staff were ready to go on strike over unpaid salaries.

The Island Council’s three members are all from opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP).

No statement had been issued from Finance Ministry over unpaid salaries.