Public sector wages
In his weekly address, President Nasheed has said the government can only restore public sector wages to their previous levels after the economy stabilises.

He said, “Based on the economic outlook in April, the government may be able to restore salaries to their previous levels.”

President said the Maldives had highest wages in the world relative to the expenditure over income. Saying the situation was unsustainable because of the large fiscal deficit accrued, the President said the government had to bring about fiscal adjustments to stabilise the economy.

“Despite criticisms and calls for protests by several people, public servants appreciate the value and importance of public sector reforms undertaken by the government.

“I [therefore] wish to thank all civil servants very much,” the President said.

In the weekly address, the President also discussed government’s decision to pay pension levies for government employees.

The President said under the recently passed Pension Act, a seven per cent levy was imposed on employees for their pension fund. That, he said, was a big amount at a time when employees received a reduced salary.

To alleviate the burden, the government has decided to pay the levy on their behalf, President Nasheed said.

For 2010, government employees must pay Rf 140 million as pension levies.

Electricity subsidies

In his weekly address, the President also discussed government’s policies on electricity subsidies.

Government has decided to subsidise electricity bills of 14250 electric metres out of the total 18905 meters in Male.

Out of the 14250 metres, The National Social Protection Agency (NSPA) will cover the total increased amount for 10342 metres based on the average bill amounts for five months, while 60 per cent will be paid for 3908 meters.

Former President Gayoom

President Nasheed concluded his weekly address by sending well wishes to former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom after his decision to retire from politics.

President also discussed in detail the political history of how several Maldivian rulers acquired power and how their power ended.