Parliament has passed a bill amending the Attorney General's Office Bill, aimed at reviewing the functions of the office and establishing clearer provisions on the employment of its legal staff. The legislation secured the support of all 65 members who attended the sitting.

The bill, proposed in June by Fuvahmulah Central MP Ali Fazad, forms part of the Government’s proposal to define in law the procedures for appointing and employing lawyers within the Attorney General's Office. It also includes revisions to the regulations governing the salaries and allowances of employees.

Under the amendments, all procedures relating to the exercise of the Attorney General’s powers in relation to Ministries created by the President will also apply to the Attorney General's Office. Furthermore, the Attorney General will be required to draw up a framework for the composition of positions such as deputy attorney general, secretary general and other staff, which must be submitted to the President for approval.

The legislation further specifies the responsibilities of the Attorney General's Office, sets out the rules governing the employment of lawyers, and provides for the recruitment of legal support service personnel.

The Attorney General’s Office had previously emphasised the need for additional changes to the law. It had also stated that the President’s Office should play a role in shaping the staffing structure of the Administration.