Parliament rejects resolution on blood shortage

Parliament on Tuesday voted against a resolution seeking to address the ongoing difficulties in obtaining blood for medical needs across the Maldives.

The resolution was proposed by Galolhu North MP Mohamed Ibrahim of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP). It aimed to address shortages faced during emergencies, including cases involving pregnant women, accident victims, and children with thalassaemia.

Out of 63 members present, 53 voted against the resolution, while 10 voted in favour.

During the debate, several members of the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) spoke against the resolution, stating that the government had already resolved the issue through the establishment of a new thalassaemia centre, ensuring sufficient blood supply. They argued that there was “no longer a shortage of blood.”

Responding to these statements, MP Mohamed Ibrahim said the resolution was not limited to the challenges faced by thalassaemia patients. He explained that the issue affected the wider health system, particularly during certain periods such as Ramadan and school holidays.

He said he had discussed the matter with the Maldives Blood Service and the Maldives Blood Council in February, but no effective solution had been reached. The issue was later submitted to the Parliament’s Social Committee in June last year, though the committee has not yet provided a response.

The resolution outlined several causes for the shortage of blood donations across the country, including:

MP Mohamed Ibrahim said the issue required a structured national approach to ensure a consistent and reliable blood supply across the country.