Women’s representation in councils to be increased to 40 percent

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced plans to increase the representation of women in local councils to 40 percent, up from the current 33 percent mandated by the Decentralization Act.

The change, announced during the "Rayyithunnaa Eku" podcast, marks a step forward in the Government’s efforts to empower women and strengthen their participation in governance.

President Muizzu stated that the decision is part of reforms that will be implemented following public awareness and consultation.

Currently, women hold 370 council seats and there are 930 members in Women’s Development Committees (WDCs). With the proposed increase, the number of women councilors is expected to grow.

Under existing regulations, island councils have at least five members, with larger islands of over 3,000 residents having seven. The reform would mean two women in five-member councils and three in seven-member councils.

President Muizzu added that this change would particularly benefit more populated islands by bringing in additional financial and development opportunities.