MP Hussain Sharif: Citizens Should Not Have to Chase Politicians for Services

In a session of the People's Majlis today, Hulhumale' North constituency MP Hussain Sharif stated that citizens should not have to run after politicians and members of parliament to obtain services. Speaking during a debate on an e-petition calling for the removal of the expensive health insurance and privileges granted to MPs under the Powers and Privileges Act, the PNC MP emphasized that elected representatives are not above the people. He said that an MP is elected to serve the people, and that the highest authority to speak in the state is vested in the people, while all branches of government—including the President, the Chief Justice, and MPs—are appointed to serve them. Sharif argued that citizens have the right to question the parliament on matters of concern. He attributed public grievances to a lack of equitable service delivery by the state and stated that if a fair and orderly system were established for providing services, citizens would not need to line up behind MPs or political appointees for assistance.