President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has reassured that the government's proposed reforms to the decentralization system will not diminish the power of the people. He made this statement at a meeting with members of Male' City Council held today to discuss essential needs and important development initiatives for Male' City.
President Dr. Muizzu emphasized his full support for the decentralization system, stating that neither the councils nor the people would suffer from the planned changes. He reiterated that the reforms aim to strengthen councils and enhance their effectiveness, not to weaken them.
The President last month outlined some changes he intends to bring to the decentralization system, including reducing the number of councilors to save state funds, which could then be redirected towards development projects.
Addressing the opposition MDP's criticism of some of the government's proposed reforms, the President said the changes are designed to strengthen the councils and produce better results.
“We don't want the representation of the people to be reduced in the slightest,” he said.
During the meeting, Mayor Adam Azim briefed the President on various challenges facing Male' City, including delays in the handover of land and flats allocated by the previous government, parking issues, road construction delays, sea swells, overcrowded cemeteries, and the need to initiate municipal services in Hulhumale'.
The President said work would be done to ensure that the land and flats allocated for housing would be given to the most deserving beneficiaries by working with local councilors. He also assured that the difficulties faced by the city council will be resolved in collaboration with the Local Governance Ministry.
