There is no question that women must get equal opportunities in every affair of the community, says Minister of Gender, Family and Social Services Shidhatha Shareef.

Speaking at the special ceremony held in Rasrani Bageechaa on Wednesday night to inaugurate new members of Male’ City’s Women’s Committee, the Minister stated that while women make up 50% of the population of the country, there should not be a chance for the question to arise if women should be given opportunities in equality.

Further, Minister Shidhatha stressed on the many different challenges women have been facing during elections in the past.

Noting that talks of women's empowerment has been ongoing for a while, the minister stated that this must be shown through action instead and that women’s role in significant decisions for made the country must also increase.

The gender minister went on to add that more steps need to be carved for the progression and empowerment of women in the country.

“Although many women are seen participating in political activities, women filling political positions are still less” stressed the Minister.

Shidhatha added that the entire community will benefit if women are empowered economically.

The perspective of the society on the extent of female responsibilities must be changed, she said.

Minister Shidhatha highlighted that women have facing a lot of hardships in their daily lives, going on to state that this proves women stay resilient through every hardship they face.