Parliament Passes Amendment Granting Ramadan Allowance to Women's Development Committee Members

The Parliament of the Maldives has passed an amendment to the Decentralization Act, ensuring that members of the Women's Development Committee (WDC) receive a Ramadan allowance. The amendment, submitted on behalf of the government by Machangolhi Central MP Ahmed Zameer, was passed unanimously with 72 votes in favor during today's parliamentary session.

According to the revised law, each WDC member who does not receive a Ramadan benefit under any other legislation will be granted MVR 3,000 before the start of Ramadan each year. The bill also includes provisions detailing the committee's responsibilities to further clarify their role in community development.

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu had previously announced this initiative during a visit to Dhangethi in Alif Dhaal Atoll, where he highlighted the longstanding financial disparities faced by WDC members. The President reaffirmed his administration's commitment to addressing these concerns by amending the Decentralization Act and Employment Act to introduce salaries for committee members and make them eligible for various financial schemes.

The allowance is set to be disbursed starting from the upcoming Ramadan, marking a significant step in recognizing the contributions of Women's Development Committees across the Maldives.