President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced that Women's Development Committee (WDC) members will receive Ramadan allowance starting next year. He stated this whilst addressing residents of Dhan'gethi during his current tour of South Ari Atoll islands.
Speaking at the meeting, the President acknowledged that WDCs have faced unfair treatment due to existing legal provisions. He explained that whilst their concerns had been raised during public meetings, finding solutions required extensive research, work and consultation.
The President revealed that the Government will propose amendments to both the Decentralisation Act and Employment Act when Parliament reconvenes. These changes aim to ensure WDC members receive proper salaries and Ramadan allowance, whilst also qualifying for various financial institution schemes. He confirmed these amendments would be implemented in time for members to receive their first Ramadan allowance during the upcoming holiday.
During the meeting, the President discussed the newly ratified Foreign Currency Bill. He emphasised that once enacted, the legislation will benefit the public by permitting dollar transactions and doubling credit card limits.
President Dr Muizzu also announced that work is in progress to introduce amendments requiring a percentage of local tourism revenue to be transferred directly to councils. This measure would enable councils to receive tourism tax revenue directly, thereby strengthening their financial independence.
