Maldives public employees and teachers threaten to go on strike

Thousands of public employees and teachers are threatening to go on strike in the Maldives if the government does not address salary discrepancies, local media reported here on Thursday. The Maldives Civil Servants' Association (MCSA) has discussed a potential strike on April 20, should the government fails to address its concerns mainly concerning pay discrepancies. "First we want to find a solution through dialogue with the government. After that, if we have to, we will go on strike. And we are confident if we go on strike, 90 percent of civil servants will support it," MCSA President Mohamed Shaugee told reporters. Stating that the past three governments and parliament should take responsibility for the delay in setting a minimum wage, Shaugee had said "the state as a whole has failed," according to local media outlet Minivan News. Maldives President Abdulla Yameen is concerned about the issue of pay discrepancies and will find a solution through discussions with relevant parties, according to President's Office Spokesperson Ibrahim Muaz Ali. "This is not a president who makes decisions based on his personal views alone. There will be discussions. The views and sentiments of the civil servants, doctors, and everyone will be considered in reaching a decision in this matter," said Muaz. According to Maldivian law workers, planning a strike must file a complaint with the Labor Relations Authority and give written notice to the employer three days prior to any stoppage of work. The Teachers Association Maldives (TAM) has also threatened to go on strike as a last resort in their fight to resolve pay discrepancies.