President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has announced plans to submit key legislative amendments aimed at strengthening Women’s Development Committees (WDCs). Speaking to residents of Vaadhoo in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll during his tour of the atoll, the President emphasized that these changes would address longstanding challenges faced by WDCs and honor commitments made to their members.
The proposed amendments, which will be presented during the first week of the upcoming Parliament term, include changes to the Employment Act and the Decentralisation Act. According to the President, these amendments will convert the current allowances provided to WDC members into formal salaries and introduce provisions for Ramadan benefits, maternity leave, and access to bank loans.
Highlighting the importance of this move, President Muizzu noted that these changes reflect the primary demands voiced by WDC members during meetings held over the past year. He assured that the shift to salaries would not necessitate full-time work but would align with current best practices, ensuring that committee members are adequately supported while fulfilling their roles.
“Women are at the forefront of community development on every island,” President Muizzu stated, reaffirming the government’s commitment to providing the necessary assistance to ensure their contributions are recognized and rewarded. He also reiterated the administration’s goal to empower both men and women equally to drive progress in their communities and the nation.
The President further highlighted the government’s broader efforts to promote gender equality in leadership, pointing out that this administration is prioritizing women’s representation in top management roles across government institutions and state-owned enterprises. He added that institutions previously led exclusively by men would soon see female leaders at the national level, reflecting the government’s commitment to creating more opportunities for women in leadership.
The announcement was met with positive responses from WDC representatives, who have long called for more formal recognition and support for their work in fostering local development. The proposed legislative changes are seen as a significant step toward enhancing gender equality and supporting grassroots initiatives across the Maldives.
