The President announces amendments to honour promises to WDC in the first week of Parliament

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced that necessary amendments will be submitted in the first week of the next Parliament term to honour commitments made to Women's Development Committees (WDC). He made these remarks whilst addressing the residents of Vaadhoo Island during his visit to the islands in Huvadhoo Atoll.

The President announced plans to propose amendments to the Employment Act and the Decentralisation Act when Parliament reopens, aiming to honour commitments made to Women's Development Committees. He stated that the amendments would convert current allowances into salaries and address challenges related to Ramadan allowances, bank loans, and maternity leave.

The President noted that the change was a key demand from all the Women's Development Committees he had met over the past year. He announced that amendments would ensure committee members receive Ramadan benefits starting next Ramadan, with allowances converted into a paid form similar to those of salaried employees. Furthermore, he assured that this change would not require full-time work but would align with principles already in practice.

The President remarked that women are the most active contributors to the development of each island, and expressed commintment to recognise their efforts. He stated that the Ggovernment will offer all necessary assistance in this respect. He added that his objective is to guarantee that both men and women are equally empowered and devoted to the development of the island and country, and the Government will implement this policy.

The President emphasised the Government's policy of promoting women to top management positions and highlighted that, compared to previous administrations, this Government would have the highest representation of women in corporate ownership and high-level roles. He added that institutions previously not led by women would now have female leaders at the national level. The Government remains dedicated to recognising women's contributions and creating opportunities for their advancement.