President to Submit Constitutional Amendments Reserving Parliamentary Quotas for Youth and Women

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced plans to submit constitutional amendments to the Parliament to reserve designated quotas for youth and women in Parliament.

Speaking at a ceremony held yesterday to celebrate the Maldives’ 61st Independence Day, President Muizzu said the proposed amendments would seek to ensure permanent opportunities for young people and women to participate in national decision-making.

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He said the government also plans to establish a Youth Council or Youth Parliament inclusively, with young people elected from across constituencies.

The proposed constitutional amendments would designate specific percentages of seats in the Parliament for youth and women, according to the President.

He said the measures were aimed at increasing the participation of groups that make up a significant share of the Maldivian population, while strengthening democracy and governance.

He also highlighted economic empowerment as an important part of efforts to empower youth and women.

The President further announced plans to establish two advisory bodies within the next three months: a Special Advisory Council and a National Council.

The Special Advisory Council will comprise experienced senior citizens who have served the country and received national honours, while the National Council will bring together individuals with expertise across fields including education, health, economics, social affairs and foreign relations.

The councils are intended to provide institutionalised advice on national affairs, government administration and challenges facing the country.

President Muizzu said he expects both councils to be established by November.