President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced plans to establish a Youth Parliament, with members to be elected among young people from each parliament constituency.

Speaking at the official ceremony marking the Maldives' 61st Independence Day, President Muizzu said greater participation by young people and women was essential to strengthening the country's democratic and governance systems.

He said the Youth Parliament would be established in the near future and would comprise representatives elected by young people.

"...The details will be announced in the near future. Yes, the establishment of a Youth Parliament covering all parliament constituencies will include youth elected from among the youth," he said.

President Muizzu also said he would propose a constitutional amendment to reserve a percentage of parliamentary seats for the youth and women.

"God willing, we will submit such matters to Parliament in the coming days," he said.

The President had previously said the proposal would reserve 10 percent of the 93 seats in Parliament for young people and another 10 percent for women. Parliament currently has three female MPs.

President Muizzu also announced plans to establish a Presidential Advisory Council and a National Advisory Council to provide advice on governance and national affairs.

He said the Special Consultative Assembly would comprise senior state dignitaries, while the National Advisory Council would consist of experts and scholars from various fields to provide guidance on key national issues.

Both councils are expected to be established within the next three months, he said.