President Muizzu said the government would propose an amendment to the Decentralization Act in the first session of next year’s parliament to replace the allowance with a salary for WDC members.
President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has said that he will propose amendments to the law to provide a salary for members of women's development committees (WDCs) in islands, replacing the current allowance system.
Speaking with residents of Alifu Dhaalu atoll Dhangethi last night, President Muizzu acknowledged that the existing legal provisions have led to unfair treatment of women's committees. However, he assured the residents that he intends to empower these committees and improve their conditions.
"Women's development committees play a very important role in island development. Hence I have said that I will address many issues faced by committee members through the legislature," he said.
Currently, members of women's committees receive an allowance for their part-time work, but they do not receive maternity leave, Ramadan allowance, or eligibility for bank loans.
President Muizzu said the government would propose an amendment to the Decentralization Act in the first session of next year’s parliament to replace the allowance with a salary for WDC members. Additionally, he will propose amendments to the Employment Act to provide Ramadan allowance and maternity leave for WDC members.
"The salary will be accepted by banks, and you will be able to get loans. You will be able to access various facilities, which is not accessible now," President Muizzu said.
The President added that, with the law amendments, Ramadan allowance will be available from next Ramadan.
"The aim of this government is to provide more benefits to the people without taking away what they currently receive," he said.
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