Aishath Alaika Adnan, the PNC candidate for Chairperson of the Malé City Women’s Development Committee (MCWDC), has said women’s rights must be translated into practical justice rather than remaining as written statements.
In her message marking International Women’s Day, Alaika noted that this year’s UN theme — “Rights, Justice, Action – for All Women and Girls” — calls for concrete steps to ensure women’s rights are realised in everyday life. She said the day serves as a reminder to uphold women’s dignity and guarantee equal opportunities.
Describing women as the backbone of families, Alaika said the empowerment of women is directly linked to the future of society. “I believe women’s views and concerns must be included in decisions related to the progress and development of the entire community,” she said.
Alaika stressed the importance of helping women become financially self‑reliant by expanding income‑generating opportunities. She added that state institutions must work together to provide protection and support for single mothers and families facing hardship.
“Women should be provided with income‑generating avenues and helped to become financially self‑sufficient. Institutions should work together to provide the needed protection and support to single mothers and families in need,” she said.
Alaika also highlighted the strengthened powers granted to Women’s Development Committees under recent legal amendments introduced during President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s administration, noting that 10 percent of the block grant will now be allocated to WDCs.
She concluded her message by calling for improved access to healthcare, enhanced safety, and easier access to essential services for all women.