Parliament has enacted an amendment to the Decentralisation Act, mandating the provision of Ramadan allowances to all members of Women's Development Committees (WDCs), commencing with the forthcoming fasting month of Ramadan.
This legislative change, endorsed by 72 lawmakers during Tuesday's session, was proposed on behalf of the government. Its primary aim, according to the bill, is to empower WDCs and emphasise the crucial role of their members in advancing island and city councils, as well as the committees themselves.
The government underscored the importance of this amendment in the bill, highlighting the need to recognise and strengthen WDC members' contributions to local community development. The bill defines the mandate of WDCs and sets forth policies for local councils and the Local Government Authority (LGA). These policies include providing essential resources and training opportunities for WDC members, strategies to alleviate financial constraints, the allocation of funds by local councils, and guidelines for effective resource utilisation.
Remuneration for WDC members, as advised by the LGA and the National Pay Commission, is also addressed through the legislative amendment. Members are to receive remuneration that aligns with their responsibilities, along with a Ramadan allowance. Specifically, those who do not receive a Ramadan allowance through other legal provisions are to be granted an allowance of USD 194.50 before Ramadan, as per the bill.
The amendment also delineates the rules and responsibilities of WDCs while granting members the authority to seek assistance from civil society organisations and international entities. Members are also empowered to establish collaborative relationships with these organisations.
Previously, the charter of WDCs required formulation with local council advice. The new amendment, however, mandates the charter's development with input from the LGA. Additionally, 5% of the funds allocated to local councils by the government must be earmarked for WDC responsibilities. Local councils must disburse the necessary funds within 30 days of receiving government funds for the first two quarters of each year, as per the bill, while the remaining funds can be allocated according to guidelines yet to be established by the LGA.
This amendment fulfils a pledge made by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu. On 14 December 2024, during a speech in Dhangethi, Alifu Dhaalu Atoll, he vowed to ensure that all WDC members receive salaries and allowances and are eligible for funding schemes through amendments to relevant laws.
With the passage and ratification of this amendment, WDC members will begin receiving Ramadan allowances starting from the upcoming fasting month. President Dr Muizzu also promised to acknowledge WDC members' contributions to community development, promote gender equality, and recognise the equal roles of women and men in community progress.
WDCs work toward enhancing women's participation in decision-making processes at both local and national levels, advocating for gender equality, and advancing women's rights. These committees collaborate with island councils, facilitate capacity building through training and resources, and support women's aspirations in public life. Their primary objective is to empower women and ensure their representation across various facets of Maldivian society.