President Dr Mohamed Muizzu stated last night that he plans for 10 percent of the 93 parliamentary seats to be reserved for youth.
Speaking on 'Espresso with Raees' program on SanguTV, the President said that he believes there should be youth representation in making policy decisions for the nation. To support this, the youth parliament will be resumed this year, he added.
Sharing his views on future changes, the President said that, as announced last week, he plans to reserve a specific percentage of parliamentary seats for youth.
"My plan is to set a quota of parliament seats prioritizing youth under the age of 30," he said.
Doing so would empower youth, and allow them a seat at the key institution that makes major national-level decisions, he said.
"My idea is to allocate 10 percent to youth, and 10 percent to women. So, for example, at present there are 93 seats in parliament. Then, there would be about 9 youth members under the age of 30, and 9 women members," he explained.
Although this is his view, the ultimate decision would be made through amendments to the law, he noted, adding that he intends to seek public opinion on the matter.
The President emphasized that youth and women must be represented in parliament, adding that a quota is the fairest way to ensure it. He assured that although it is a change he desires, it will only be implemented through due process in accordance with public sentiments.
