Time for Reform: Why Maldives Should Cut Pension and Free Medical Insurance for Former Majlis Members

 Sri Lanka recently made a bold and historic decision that is drawing attention across the region. In February 2026, Sri Lanka’s Parliament voted 154 in favour and only 2 against to abolish pensions for Members of Parliament, ending a 49-year-old law that granted lawmakers pensions after just one term. The move was part of broader reforms to reduce political privileges and restore public trust following economic hardship.


This raises an important question for the Maldives: Should former Majlis members continue receiving pensions and free medical insurance?

Currently, former Maldivian MPs can receive 30% to 45% of a sitting MP’s salary after serving one or two terms, along with health insurance benefits similar to sitting members. These benefits begin after age 55 under existing arrangements.

While public service deserves respect, parliamentary service is not meant to be a lifetime financial guarantee. Many MPs already come from professional backgrounds, business sectors, or return to private employment after their term. Providing lifelong pensions and free healthcare creates an unnecessary financial burden on taxpayers.

Globally, several major democracies are moving toward contributory or limited pension systems rather than automatic lifelong benefits. In many countries, MPs must contribute to pension schemes like civil servants rather than receiving special privileges. This promotes fairness and sustainability.

Meanwhile, some countries such as New Zealand, Norway, and parts of Australia have either reduced or replaced special parliamentary pensions with standard retirement schemes tied to contributions. The trend is clear: politicians are being treated more like ordinary workers, not privileged elites.

Cutting pensions and free medical insurance for former Majlis members would have several positive impacts:

* Reduce long-term government spending

* Improve public trust in political leadership

* Promote fairness between politicians and citizens

* Encourage leaders motivated by service, not perks

* Release the freed funds to use in healthcare, education, and social programs.

Public office should be about serving the nation, not securing lifetime benefits. Sri Lanka’s decision demonstrates that meaningful reform is possible. The Maldives now has an opportunity to follow suit and send a powerful message: leadership is a responsibility, not a retirement plan.

Such reform would not weaken democracy — it would strengthen it.

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