Amendment Proposed to Provide Ramadan Allowance for Women's Development Committees

An amendment has been proposed to the Decentralization Act to provide a Ramadan allowance for members of Women's Development Committees (WDCs). The bill was submitted on behalf of the government by Ahmed Zameer, a PNC MP representing the Machangolhi Central constituency.

The purpose of the amendment is to strengthen the role of WDCs by clarifying their responsibilities in the law and making necessary changes to empower the committees. One of the key provisions includes assigning the National Pay Commission, with guidance from the Local Government Authority, to determine appropriate remuneration for WDC members and ensure they receive a Ramadan allowance every year.

Currently, the Ramadan allowance is set at MVR 3,000 per employee. Salaries for WDC members vary by council type, with city council presidents receiving MVR 7,000, vice presidents MVR 6,500, and members MVR 6,000. In island councils, presidents receive MVR 6,000, vice presidents MVR 5,500, and members MVR 5,000. The amendment also proposes allocating at least 5% of council grants to WDCs.

Providing a Ramadan allowance to WDC members was a pledge by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, first announced during a visit to ADh. Dhangethi last December. Currently, WDC members only receive an allowance and are not entitled to benefits such as maternity leave, Ramadan allowance, or access to bank loans, as the role is considered part-time.