Nazim warns of dangers of inciting hatred against MPs, citing past murder of lawmaker

Parliament’s Deputy Speaker, Dhiggaru MP Ahmed Nazim, on Tuesday, warned against inciting hatred and hostility between the public and parliamentarians without verifying facts, citing it as a dangerous practice that has previously contributed to the assassination of a lawmaker.

The Deputy Speaker made the remarks during a debate on a public petition submitted to the Parliament calling to end high-end health insurance coverage provided to parliamentarians, which is not available to the general public.

Nazim noted that the nature of the petition places parliamentarians in a difficult position regardless of whether they speak in support of or opposition to it. However, he stressed the importance of establishing the facts, asserting that the health insurance provided to parliamentarians and healthcare services available to the general public are not comparable matters.

Addressing salaries and allowances provided to senior state officials, Nazim explained that benefits for parliamentarians are provided for under Article 102 of the Constitution. He noted that the article mandates the Parliament to determine the salaries and allowances of the President, Vice President, Cabinet Ministers, Members of Parliament, judges and individuals serving in independent positions.

He therefore clarified that such benefits are not limited to parliamentarians, but also apply to judges and heads of independent institutions established under the Constitution.

Nazim further warned that using the petition to promote a false narrative that parliamentarians are the only officials receiving substantial benefits constitutes a dangerous form of incitement. He cautioned that pursuing such agendas for popularity could place the safety of parliamentarians at risk.

"I believe it is extremely dangerous to attack specific individuals whenever someone seeks popularity. Such actions put members at risk; we have already seen a distinguished member of this house lose their life as a result," Nazim stated.

In his remarks, Nazim also noted that the existing regulations governing the retirement of parliamentarians are not structured in the most effective manner.