Proposed changes to Employment Act: MPs assure to take public concerns into account

Pro-government lawmakers have given the assurance that the public’s concern over the proposed amendments to the Employment Act will be taken into account.

The government endorsed bill submitted by Kendhikulhudhoo constituency MP Ahmed Easa has caused a public outrage recently, especially over the proposed changes to extend probation period of employees, and seeks to remove various ‘Job Description” specifications; this includes date of commencement of employment agreement, methods and guidelines for salary calculation, duration's at which salary shall be paid, leave provisions and principles pursuant to which disciplinary measures may be taken against employees over conduct.

While MP Easa faced criticism over the proposed amendments, some lawmakers representing the main ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has assured that the public’s concerns will be taken into account and amended before the bill is passed through parliament.

As such, Kulhudhuffushi constituency MP Yasir Abdul Latheef tweeted they “will bring amendments based on citizen’s concern.”

Noting that bills are “drafted by various relevant authorities from government in which MDP consists of 40%”, Yasir said that he doubts that there is any “magnate manipulations” and assured that he is fully independent “from any bigwig.”

South-Galolhu constituency MP Meekail Naseem vowed to address the people’s concern during the committee process, adding that the current amendments will make “the employees’ rights a choice for employers.”

Fonadhoo constituency MP Moosa Siraj said that he himself noticed issues with the proposed amendments, and stated that they will ensure that the bill that’s passed through parliament is amended as per the people’s wishes.

Furthermore, Dhihdhoo constituency MP Abdulla Waheed assured that the amendments will only be passed after addressing the public concerns.