MPs Called to Prove Their Integrity on Controversial Pay Rise

Former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum has called on Members of Parliament (MPs) who opposed or abstained from voting on a contentious pay increase for themselves to uphold transparency and accountability. He encourages these MPs to demonstrate their commitment to their principles by donating the additional funds to charitable organizations.

In May 2024, 40 MPs supported the salary increases, which affect the President, Speaker, Ministers, Assistant Ministers, and MPs. In contrast, seven MPs voted against this increase, while five chose to abstain.

In a statement released on Monday, Mr. Sayed-Khaiyum expressed doubts about the integrity of those who opposed or abstained from the vote, urging them to take tangible steps to support charitable causes if they truly disagree with the pay rise. He stated, “Those MPs who voted against or abstained from this morally and ethically unacceptable pay rise should not benefit from it.”

He emphasized that these MPs should either donate the extra funds to a worthy organization or establish a trust to assist ordinary Fijians. Furthermore, Mr. Sayed-Khaiyum insisted on complete transparency from the MPs regarding any donations made, suggesting that public disclosure would reinforce their genuine opposition to the pay hike.

“If they genuinely opposed the pay rise, this is an opportunity for them to prove their sincerity,” he remarked. He stressed that failing to act would place these MPs in a morally questionable light, similar to those who voted in favor of the increase.

He concluded by urging the MPs to seize this chance to demonstrate moral leadership and political acumen, stating, “If these MPs want to show they are truly on the side of ordinary Fijians, they should take immediate action and make it public.”

This call for action reflects a growing public demand for accountability and could drive MPs to engage more directly with the communities they serve, potentially leading to increased public trust.

Summary: Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum challenges MPs who opposed or abstained from a recent pay increase to donate the funds to charity, urging them to prove their sincerity and accountability. He calls for transparency in their actions to strengthen public trust and demonstrate genuine support for ordinary Fijians.