Speaker rejects emergency motion on Aasandha changes
The new rules came into effect on Friday.
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Parliament Speaker Abdul Raheem Abdulla on Wednesday rejected the emergency motion submitted by the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) concerning recent changes to the Aasandha national insurance scheme.
The speaker stated that the motion did not fulfil the requirements for consideration as an emergency motion.
“According to the rules of the parliament, the matter raised in an emergency motion must be a sudden incident that has occurred within the past seven days. There is no further vote on whether to consider it,” he said.
The changes in question were implemented last week. On Thursday, Aasandha company announced that non-admitted services, such as doctor consultations, would not be covered for individuals who have private insurance. Previously, both Aasandha and private insurance coverage were available for those with private insurance.
The new rules came into effect on Friday.
The emergency motion was moved by MDP MP Mohamed Ibrahim. In presenting the motion, he emphasised that access to health services is a constitutional right and that the state should provide this right to citizens to the fullest extent possible.
Ibrahim noted that people seeking hospital and clinic services this year have faced difficulties, including being unable to obtain doctor appointments, tests, or medications, particularly in the capital. As a result, many have had to pay for these services out of pocket.
“The prices of goods are high, and medical expenses are adding further strain on people who are already struggling,” Ibrahim stated, warning that this situation could lead to widespread suffering.
The motion also referenced the National System of Social Insurance Act, which mandates that in cases where financial difficulties affect the operation of the insurance scheme, the finance ministry must be approached for necessary funds to address the issue.
Ibrahim stressed that parliament has a constitutional duty to hold the government accountable and that members should prioritise national interests and public welfare.
“We are moving this emergency motion to ensure uninterrupted access to Aasandha services and to call for immediate action to secure a service directly affecting the people,” he added.
