Yumna criticizes low female representation in new Cabinet

Former Heritage Minister Yumna Maumoon has expressed concern over the few women in the cabinet of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s government.

There are 22 ministers in President Muizzu's cabinet, out of which three Ministers are women. They are Agriculture Minister Dr Aishath Rameela, Social and Family Development Minister Dr Aishath Shiham and Higher Education Minister Dr Mariam Maria.

In a tweet, Yumna noted the few women in the cabinet and expressed concern that there is no gender ministry in the new government.

Congratulations all! But only 3 women Ministers out of 22 posts is indeed a setback for women’s empowerment ???? https://t.co/x7okyqyyhW

— Yumna Maumoon ???????? ???????????? (@yumna_maumoon) November 18, 2023

“There are educated and experienced women leaders in Maldives' political field today,” she said in the tweet.

There were nineteen members in the previous government's cabinet, six of whom were women. They are Defense Minister Maria Didi, Education Minister Dr Aishath Ali, Gender Minister Aishath Mohamed Didi, Transport and Civil Aviation Minister Aishath Nahula, Environment Minister Aiminath Shauna and Heritage Minister Yumna Maumoon.

President Muizzu had earlier said that the role of women in other political positions would not be reduced even if there were fewer women in the cabinet. As such, he has decided to appoint women to the heads of some state-owned companies.