Social Equity Must Be Considered in Health Insurance for Top State Officials: MP Azaan

Hithadhoo Central MP Ahmed Azaan has advocated for converting the health insurance scheme for individuals in key positions into a co-payment system. Azaan expressed this view during a Public Accounts Committee (PAC) meeting today, responding to the Judicial Service Commission's (JSC) recommendation to increase insurance premiums for judges and retired judges.

In May, the JSC requested parliament to enhance the insurance packages for judges, proposing that the state cover 10 percent of the insurance costs that judges are required to pay. Committee members have already raised concerns over this issue, prompting the panel to ask the National Pay Commission to clarify its policy on strengthening health insurance, which is part of the benefits provided in addition to salaries under various laws.

Referring to information from the Pay Commission on state insurance provisions, Azaan highlighted that the proposed premium adjustments reflect the amount employees must pay themselves. The Pay Commission has suggested amendments to make it mandatory for judges to contribute through a co-payment. Azaan argued that MPs should also participate in a co-payment system, contrary to current norms.

Azaan emphasized that individuals in the three branches of the state receive significantly higher salaries compared to the general population. He argued that it is inequitable to use taxpayer money for their health issues, especially given the country's current economic situation. Committee members pointed out that the last insurance increase for judges included a 10 percent contribution from the judges themselves, and changing the policy to cover this percentage by the state would be inappropriate.

The debate over health insurance benefits for key state positions is part of a broader discussion on social accountability and fiscal responsibility. The Maldives, like many other countries, faces economic challenges exacerbated by the global pandemic. The government's budget is strained, and there is a growing demand for more efficient use of public funds.

In recent years, there has been increasing scrutiny over the compensation and benefits packages of public officials. Calls for reforms have gained momentum as citizens demand greater transparency and accountability from their leaders. The proposal to introduce a co-payment system for health insurance is seen as a step towards ensuring that public officials share the financial burden of their benefits.