President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has stated that operating islands under decentralised principles is fundamental to maintaining social harmony.
The President made these remarks during his Presidential Address at the first sitting of the first session of the People's Majlis for 2025.
In his address, the President emphasised his commitment to fully implementing the decentralised system, noting that he continues to work towards public objectives by engaging directly with communities to understand their needs. He reported having met with all councils in the Maldives save one, including all atoll and city councils, and has commenced a second round of meetings.
The President expressed his belief that council secretariats should reflect the gravitas of their responsibilities through their physical environment. He maintained that establishing modern, comfortable workspaces whilst giving councils proper respect and dignity is a core principle of his Administration. To this end, he highlighted that contracts have been awarded for constructing 55 council secretariat buildings, with preparations underway for an additional 50 facilities to be built through Chinese grant assistance.
Addressing remuneration, the President acknowledged his pledge to improve council staff salaries. He confirmed that this year, alongside the harmonisation and increase of civil service and judiciary staff salaries, council staff would receive similar adjustments.
Furthermore, to fulfil commitments made to Women's Development Committees (WDCs), he announced forthcoming amendments to the Employment Act and Decentralisation Act this month. These amendments will transform current allowances into formal salary grades. The President explained that this restructuring would resolve various issues, including access to Ramadan allowances, bank loans, and maternity leave entitlements for committee members.
