Call to Stop Benefits for Former MPs Grows

These benefits, highlighted in law, are outlined in the Parliamentary Privileges and Powers Act. Under this legislation, ex-MPs who complete one term in Parliament receive a financial allowance equivalent to 30 percent of an active MP's salary. Those who serve two terms are entitled to 45 percent of an MP's salary as a financial allowance. These allowances are disbursed once the individual leaves Parliament or reaches the age of 55.

Former MP Faris Maumoon has been vocal about the need to review and reduce these allowances, citing concerns over disproportionate state expenditure and potential incentives for unfair electoral practices. However, he acknowledges that the campaign against these benefits may have come too late, suggesting that advocacy for reform should have occurred before candidates were elected to Parliament.

The recent parliamentary election saw a significant turnover of MPs, with only 11 out of 87 incumbents securing reelection. This turnover has raised hopes that the 20th Parliament will address longstanding issues, including the provision of allowances to former MPs, which went unaddressed during the tenure of the 19th Parliament.