The government has postponed the proposed pay rise, scheduled to go into effect in January 2024, to police and army personnel due to the current financial situation of the state, it has been revealed.

A senior administration official told local media that the increase was postponed due to the challenges of implementing the new pay framework under the prevailing financial situation.

Both agencies were informed earlier on Wednesday that the National Pay Commission had decided to postpone the increase. The two agencies have also been notified that the new pay framework will come into effect two months later, in March.

While the Ministry of Finance has announced that the salaries of police officers will be increased from March, further delays are expected should the state’s financial situation not improve by then, according to the Head of the Office of the Commissioner, Chief Superintendent of Police Ahmed Shifan.

The pay increase, for the police and soldiers, were commitments by both President Mohamed Muizzu and former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and was reflected in the proposed 2024 budget.

President Muizzu is said to be considering increasing the salaries in three phases; 35 percent within his first year, 25 percent in the second year and by 40 percent in the last year of his term.

The administration is also set to increase the salaries of customs and immigration personnel.