President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has ratified the third amendment to the Former Presidents’ Protection and Benefit Act.
Parliament passed the bill on December 1. The amendment removes the office allowance for former Presidents as part of government cost-cutting.
It also suspends benefits if a former President returns to office or takes another State post. Former Presidents living abroad will not receive State security.
The amendment extends benefits to former Vice-Presidents who complete a full term, including a MVR 30,000 monthly allowance and State-funded healthcare.
If a former President or Vice-President is convicted of an offence committed while in office, all benefits for them and their spouse are suspended. The amendment takes effect immediately after publication in the Gazette.
