Maldives’ first female defence minister, Mariya Ahmed Didi has stated that she was not appointed to the post to teach military officers how to use guns, but rather ‘to ensure that the officers work within the constitution and laws.’

The newly appointed defence minister addressed officers of the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) at a special ceremony held on Wednesday night, where she also responded to the criticism directed at her for the appointment.

Noting that she is being criticized for being appointed to head such a professional organization, Mariya stated that her main task is to ensure that officers of the armed forces act ‘within the laws’.

Furthermore, she noted that while the President must ensure that military officers act within the law, that the minister is the one that will be held accountable for their actions in parliament.

She also cautioned the military to refrain from taking part in corrupt practices ‘in any level’.

Minister Mariya further appealed to the officers to not to take to heart any criticism directed towards them by the public, but rather to show their commitment to the people and country via their actions.

Mariya also assured them that the government will work for the institution’s progress, by providing them with the necessary facilities and establishing required laws.

Chief of Defence Force Ahmed Shiyam spoke at the ceremony as well, and expressed hope that the Mariya will continue to break records as defence minister, “as she had done in the past”.

Mariya had been a member of parliament since 2005. She resigned on November 17 and was appointed as defence minister the same day.