MDP criticizes committee meetings lasting under 15 minutes despite MVR 20k monthly allowance

Members of the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) raised serious concerns over what they described as a lack of activity within the Parliament, stating that while each parliamentarian receives a monthly committee allowance of MVR 20,000, committee meetings frequently conclude in less than 15 minutes.

Speaking at a press conference held by the MDP on Wednesday, the minority party expressed dissatisfaction with what it described as the slow pace of parliamentary proceedings. In this regard, South Hulhumale MP Dr. Ahmed Shamheed stressed that the Parliament’s core responsibilities, including floor debates and oversight work carried out through committees, have effectively stalled.

"Presently, the Parliament is only considering a single amendment concerning waste management. Today, only one member was granted the opportunity to debate this amendment. Due to the lack of other legislative business, we are essentially forced to prolong the discussion of this solitary amendment throughout the entire week," Shamheed said.

"A member receives MVR 20,000 as a committee allowance, yet an average committee session does not even last 15 minutes now. Frequently, committees are scheduled only to be canceled shortly thereafter," he added.

Highlighting the limited legislative work currently taking place, Shamheed said the only matter scheduled for debate on the floor this week was a minor amendment concerning waste management. "Today, only one member was given the opportunity to debate that amendment. Because there is no other work, we are forced to stretch a single amendment across the entire week," he added.

The MDP members also raised concerns over disruptions to important oversight activities, particularly within the Public Accounts Committee, where opposition members are represented. Shamheed noted that Wednesday’s Public Accounts Committee meeting was canceled just before it was scheduled to commence.

"The Parliament is failing in its fundamental duty to hold the government accountable," the MDP members asserted.

Wednesday’s parliamentary sitting, which began at 09:00am, concluded by 11:30am. Of the two committee meetings scheduled for the day, one was canceled.

The 20th Parliament, in which the government holds a super-majority, has faced continued criticism over irregular sittings and limited committee activities during its first session.

Public concerns have grown over whether the performance of lawmakers reflects the significant salaries, allowances, and state resources allocated to the institution. Despite the considerable expenditure from the state budget, questions remain over whether the Parliament’s legislative and oversight responsibilities are being carried out effectively.