The Parliament has unanimously approved a five-year extension for Niumath Shafeeg as the Children’s Ombudsperson.
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu proposed the extension to Parliament, which was reviewed by the Human Rights Committee. During an interview with the committee on July 16, Niumath secured over 75 percent of members’ marks, leading to the committee’s recommendation for her reappointment.
In today’s parliamentary session, all 50 members present voted in favor of extending her term. Niumath was first appointed to the role on July 23, 2020, with her initial five-year term set to expire this month.
The Children’s Ombudsperson is tasked with ensuring state institutions comply with the Child Rights Protection Act and the Convention on the Rights of the Child. The role also includes evaluating institutions and staff involved in child rights protection and investigating their conduct.
The position carries a salary of MVR 25,000 and an allowance of MVR 10,000, totalling MVR 35,000 in compensation.