Councils Engage in Talks Over Pay Cuts Linked to New Salary Framework

Local Government Minister Adam Shareef Umar has confirmed that several councils have expressed concerns regarding the revised state pay framework introduced last November. Speaking on Raajje Miadhu, a state media programme, Shareef acknowledged that the new salary structure has imposed financial strain on councils, particularly in covering administrative staff salaries. Discussions are now underway with the Pay Commission and the Ministry of Finance to address these issues. Male’ City Mayor Adam Azim has publicly criticized the salary reductions, emphasizing the impact on employees’ livelihoods. The revised framework has led to salary cuts across various sectors, with judiciary employees staging silent protests in response. The government has yet to announce any changes to the framework but remains in talks with relevant institutions.