Morocco Abolishes Retirement Benefits for Parliamentarians, Ending Long-Standing Controversy

The function of parliamentarian being a political function that does not entitle to a monthly remuneration (salary), there is no need to talk about retirement. In return for this function, the parliamentarian receives a representation allowance. It is therefore for this purpose that law 42-22 which has just been published in the Official Bulletin puts an end to the retirement scheme for parliamentarians and at the same time to the controversy raised by this subject for many years, informs Challenge.

In application of this law, the contributions of the members of the House of Councillors to the retirement scheme and the payment of retirement pensions to former councillors must cease as of next October 1st. The contributions already paid by the councillors will be refunded to them. Similarly, those already receiving a retirement pension will also be able to be reimbursed if the total amount of their contributions is greater than the total sum of the pensions already received.

In the long run, the balance of the retirement scheme funds, currently estimated at 30 million dirhams, will have to be paid to the association of social works of the officials of the House of Councillors, under the conditions set by another law that will be taken shortly. Law 42-22 will undoubtedly displease many, especially those who see politics as an opportunity for enrichment. Its application will help restore the confidence of Moroccans in the institutions and in the democratic game.