President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has pledged to increase the salary of all state employees in January.
At a campaign event held in Thulhaadhoo, Baa Atoll, President Solih said that he will increase the salary of over 44,000 state employees by 40% after approving the state budget for next year. As such, employees of the Maldives Customs Service, the Maldives Immigration, the Maldives Police Service (MPS), the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), and the judiciary are expected to have their salaries increased next year.
Additionally, President Solih said that the plan to increase the salary of state employees has been formulated and that details will be announced soon. He expressed confidence that the change will allow families to live a better life and prosper.
Following the change, the lowest ranking police officer is expected to have their salary increased from USD713 to USD1,000 and a military officer with the rank of private will have their salary increased from USD746 to USD1,000. In addition, an employee at a local council would have their salary increased from USD467 to USD1,000.
The government said it aims to eliminate the pay gap in various sectors with the National Pay Framework and to ensure sustainable employment and career opportunities through a robust system. The government has already increased the salaries of health workers, teachers, and university staff.