The Parliament has approved the government’s proposed amendment to the Security and Benefits Act for former presidents, which reduces state-funded allowances and tightens eligibility criteria. The bill, submitted by the MP for Hulhudhoo constituency, passed with 68 votes in favour.

Under the amendment, the monthly allowance for former presidents will be reduced to MVR 100,000, and the total monthly expenditure to run the Office of Former Presidents, previously MVR 175,000, will be removed entirely. The revised law also states that former presidents will not receive benefits if they hold another state position, are seeking re-election, or are serving a new term.

The amendment further specifies that protection will not be provided when a former president resides abroad. In times of economic crisis, the government may revise benefits in consultation with Parliament.

Those who have completed a full five-year term as Vice President will now receive a monthly allowance of MVR 30,000, along with health services covered by the state in the Maldives and abroad.

The changes come as part of broader efforts to reduce state expenditure and reform top-level benefits.