Former President Mohamed Nasheed has voiced support for President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s proposal to amend the Constitution and reduce privileges afforded to former presidents.
Under existing laws, past presidents and members of the Parliament enjoy various privileges, which has drawn frequent public criticism due to the burden on the state. The government has announced plans to revise these provisions and cut back on some of the allowances granted.
In a social media post, Nasheed stated that he supports lowering the pensions paid to former heads of state.
"I also see a reduction in the amount of pensions for former presidents as a good step,” Nasheed wrote.
According to the Privileges and Protection for Former Presidents Act, a president who has served one term receives a monthly allowance of USD 3,343, while those who have served more than one term are entitled to USD 4,864 per month.
In addition, the state must provide up to USD 3,243 per month for residential expenses and up to USD 11,349 monthly to fund an office, staff and facilities for social or public work if required.
These costs are paid from the state budget every year. At present, USD 1.27 million has been included in the budget for former presidents’ allowances. This number will continue to rise with each new term.
The former presidents currently entitled to state benefits are Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, Abdulla Yameen, Mohamed Nasheed and Dr Mohamed Waheed Hassan Manik.