Public criticism over allowance for families of Nov 3 martyrs
Critics argue that the policy appears to serve political and public relations objectives rather than long-term stability.
The government’s decision to provide a monthly allowance of MVR 9,000 to the families of soldiers killed in the 3 November 1988 attack on the Maldives has led to public concern and criticism.
A regulation gazetted Wednesday outlines allowances for soldiers awarded the Medal of Honour in recognition of their role in repelling the attack. The allowances include:
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MVR 9,000 per month for the families of martyred soldiers (each for surviving parents, children, and widows of the fallen soldiers).
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MVR 9,000 per month for recipients of the Huravee Gold Medal.
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MVR 8,000 per month for recipients of the Huravee Silver Medal.
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MVR 6,000 per month for those awarded commendations for bravery.
A total of 19 Maldivian nationals, including eight soldiers, lost their lives during the incident.
The decision has drawn criticism on social media amid concerns over the country’s economic situation. International financial institutions have advised the government to reduce spending in the coming years.
A user named Fathimath wrote on X that the children of the martyrs are now middle-aged, and providing them with MVR 9,000 does not reflect true respect for their fathers' sacrifice. She described the allowance as inadequate recognition.
"If we really want to honour these martyrs, we should address corruption and improve governance. Their grown children, now adults, should not be the focus," she wrote.
Former Deputy Managing Director of Island Aviation, Aishath Jennifer, commented that the eldest child of a soldier killed in 1988 is now 37 years old and earning an income. She compared the allowance to existing government support programmes.
"Single mothers with children under 18 receive an allowance. Each senior citizen receives MVR 5,000 per month," she wrote.
Another user, Mohammd Ruwaid Nimreeh, argued that the children of martyrs have built independent lives and questioned the necessity of such allowances.
"There is no justification for this. What’s next? Special job quotas for such children?" he wrote.
A user named Mohamed pointed to economic difficulties, rising prices, and business challenges. He questioned whether the decision was politically motivated.
Ahmed Looth Shahid wrote that while he does not oppose recognising national heroes, the economic situation raises concerns.
"When workers struggle to earn MVR 9,000 as a basic salary, is it fair to give the same amount to all blood relatives of martyrs? I don’t think so," he wrote.
Critics argue that the policy appears to serve political and public relations objectives rather than long-term stability.
