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Washington, United States
Bill Gates' former wife, Melinda French Gates, said on Monday that she would step down as co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation effective next month.
In a statement on X, French Gates stated that the time was now for women's rights to be safeguarded and advanced globally.
"After careful thought and reflection, I have decided to resign from my role as co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. My last day of work at the foundation will be June 7th," her statement read.
— Melinda French Gates (@melindagates) May 13, 2024
She added, "This is not a decision I came to lightly. I am immensely proud of the foundation that Bill and I built together and of the extraordinary work it is doing to address inequities around the world. I care deeply about the foundation team, our partners around the world, and everyone who is touched by its work."
She stated that her departure and the Gates' earlier divorce arrangement would provide her with "an additional $12.5 billion to commit to my work on behalf of women and families". Bill Gates and Melinda French Gates got divorced in May 2021.
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Bill Gates in a separate statement said, “I am sorry to see Melinda leave, but I am sure she will have a huge impact in her future philanthropic work.”
"I want to thank Melinda for her critical contributions to the Foundation from its very beginning. As a co-founder and co-chair Melinda has been instrumental in shaping our strategies and initiatives, significantly impacting global health and gender equality," he wrote on X.
I want to thank Melinda for her critical contributions to the Foundation from its very beginning. As a co-founder and co-chair Melinda has been instrumental in shaping our strategies and initiatives, significantly impacting global health and gender equality.
Looking ahead, I… https://t.co/ZEU4D2q76v
— Bill Gates (@BillGates) May 13, 2024
He added that he will stay completely dedicated to the Foundation's work across all initiatives, as well as to seizing chances to continue improving the lives of millions of people throughout the world.
Many wished her the best for her future endeavors under her post on X. "Melinda, this is so exciting. Thanks for everything you’ve already done, and I can’t wait to see all you do next. Onward!" former US Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton wrote on X.
"Thank you, Melinda! Can not wait for the next brilliant chapter!!" E. Jean Carroll wrote on X.