President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, in his commitment to uphold democratic principles, has decided to open the floor for public discussion on the formation and election of councils.
Speaking to the people of GDh Fiyoari, on Tuesday evening, the President said that he has already expressed the idea of reducing the number of councils and that changes will be made in consultation with the people discussed. He pointed out that one concern was that reducing the number of councillors would affect democratic representation.
Elaborating on his proposal, the President emphasised his openness to alternative solutions. He suggested that the current number of councillors could be retained, with the president and vice president assuming full-time roles, with the councillors receiving an allowance for each sitting. He also noted that developed countries have councillors in this way. By doing so, he said, it does not affect democratic values and values. The President also proposed other methods, such as joint candidacies and ideological partnerships, to ensure a diverse range of voices in the councils.
He said the Women's Development Committee (WDC) can also be changed in the same manner. As such, the President said that the President and Vice President of the Committee can be made up of two full-time members, and the remaining members can be made "per sitting" or those who receive allowances for the days they attend the meeting. The President said that while the councillors are converted into such allowances, the amendment to the act to address the concerns of the WDC members will be made available to part-time councillors by making the allowance available to them in the law with the same pay status.
Adding on regarding City Councils, President Dr Muizzu said the mayor and deputy mayor can be elected as full-time executive employees. The remaining members can be made allowance recipients for every meeting attended.
Therefore, the President stated that if the public agrees with his suggestions, a public debate could be held for them to share their views. He urged the people to think about and submit their opinions. At the same time, the President encouraged discussions on the issue at a profound technical level as well as in the halls and indoors of the public. The President said there is a need for the most appropriate solution.
The President concluded his speech by saying that the Government is conducting development works in consultation with the people. He said he wants to reach out to the people, listen to what they want, and move things forward in their way.
