MP to withdraw bill seeking additional benefits for former lawmakers

Thimarafushi constituency MP Mohamed Musthafa has decided to withdraw an amendment to the Parliamentary Privileges Act, seeking additional benefits to former parliamentarians.

He announced the decision at Wednesday’s sitting.

He proposed the amendment at Monday’s sitting, seeking airport VIP services for former MPs.

However, MP Musthafa on Wednesday announced the decision to withdraw the bill, claiming that he is not seeking any personal benefits.

“The reason that I sought an opportunity to speak in today’s sitting is so that I can announce the decision to withdraw the amendment. That I do not want any special protection,” he noted.

While proposing the amendment at Monday’s sitting, Musthafa noted that parliamentarians “do a lot of work for the state,” and that they should be honoured.

A total of four amendments have been proposed to the Parliamentary Privileges Act; including providing financial benefits and diplomatic passports to them and their spouses, as well as health insurance for their spouses and children.

MP Musthafa lost his bid for re-election in April’s parliamentary election. While he had competed through main ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), the party has voiced concern over the bills seeking benefits for former lawmakers.

As such, North-Galolhu constituency MP Eva Abdulla said that the party will impose “a red whipline” for the bills.