President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has officially ratified the Human Organ Transplantation Bill, establishing a comprehensive legal framework for organ donation and transplantation services in the Maldives.

The government-sponsored legislation was initially passed by the People’s Majlis in May. However, President Muizzu returned the bill to Parliament for reconsideration due to concerns regarding provisions that allowed prisoners to participate in organ transplantation procedures. Following necessary revisions, the Parliament passed the amended bill on July 1st.

According to the President’s Office, the ratified law has been published in the Government Gazette and is slated to come into effect 180 days from the date of ratification. The legislation outlines the general standards for transplant procedures and clearly defines the rights of both donors and recipients.

Under the new law, the President will establish an ‘Organ Transplant Council’ to determine national policies regarding the system. Additionally, an ‘Organ Transplant Authorization Committee’ will be formed to grant specific permissions for transplantation procedures within the country.