President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has proposed extending the term of Niumath Shafeeg as Children’s Ombudsperson, ahead of the expiry of her five-year tenure.

The President’s request was read during Monday’s sitting of the People’s Majlis and has been referred to the Parliament’s Human Rights and Gender Committee for review.

Niumath was appointed to the role on 23 July 2020 with parliamentary approval. Her term, established under the Child Rights Protection Act, ends on 23 July 2025.

The Ombudsperson is responsible for monitoring the implementation of child rights laws and international conventions, assessing institutions and staff in the child protection sector, and investigating related conduct.

The role carries a monthly salary of MVR 25,000 and an allowance of MVR 10,000, totalling MVR 35,000.

Niumath is a long-time child rights advocate with experience at UNICEF, the Health Protection Agency, and the National Institute of Education. She has also lectured at local universities and currently serves as Chief Commissioner of the Maldives Girl Guides Association.