President Mohamed Nasheed today met with Secretary General of Commonwealth Local Government Forum (CLGF), Mr Carl Wright. The meeting was held at the President’s Office.
Discussions at the meeting were held on local council elections soon to be held in the Maldives and decentralisation of administration.
Speaking at the meeting, the President noted the importance the government attached to decentralisation and local governance. He also said the government hoped the upcoming local elections would be very free and fair.
The President requested for Commonwealth’s observation of local elections and sought its assistance in reaching cross-party consensus in implementing related legislations.
Mr Wright commended the Maldives for taking the initiative in implementing local governance, adding that it was crucial for broader consolidation of democracy. He said the Commonwealth would support the Maldives in whatever way possible.
The meeting was also attended by Vice President Dr Mohamed Waheed, Special Envoy of the President Ibrahim Hussain Zaki, Advisor on Political Affairs Hassan Afeef and Minister of Home Affairs Mr Mohamed Shihab.
