Ashiyath Alaika Adhnan, the People’s National Congress (PNC) candidate for President of the Malé City Women’s Development Committee (WDC), has stated that recent amendments to the Decentralization Act have significantly expanded the mandate and authority of WDCs.

She made the remarks while speaking during the PNC campaign programme Dhivehinge Raajje. Alaika said the amendments submitted to Parliament by the Government after President Dr Mohamed Muizzu assumed office have strengthened the institutional role of WDCs across the country.

Alaika noted that empowering families and advancing family development has long been central to her political work. She said that during her time in the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and later in The Democrats, she was involved in policy formulation efforts aimed at supporting families.

However, she stated that despite commitments made by those parties to improve family well-being, the pledges were not fulfilled when they were in a position to do so.

In contrast, she said the current Government has prioritised family development since taking office, introducing measures aimed at strengthening families nationwide.

Alaika further highlighted that women are often the first to experience and respond to challenges within households, making WDCs crucial in identifying and addressing family-related issues at community level.

Explaining the changes introduced under the amended law, she said the President of a WDC is now elected by the entire electorate of a city or island, similar to mayors and council presidents. She added that the position has been formalised as a full-time role, with members receiving salaries instead of allowances.

“Compared to the previous structure, this is no longer a fragmented arrangement. A President elected by all residents and serving full-time significantly strengthens the committee’s ability to function effectively,” Alaika said.

She added that she is contesting for the position in Malé City as she believes she is capable of carrying out the responsibilities of the office and utilising the expanded powers to further advance family development initiatives.

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