President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to strengthening decentralised governance, drawing on the challenges he faced during his tenure as Mayor to ensure that councils are better equipped to avoid similar obstacles.
He conveyed this pledge while speaking to Kulhudhuffushi City residents, as part of his ongoing tour of the inhabited islands of South Thiladhunmathi Atoll.
Addressing public criticism of the 16th Amendment to the Decentralisation Act, President Dr Muizzu reiterated his Administration’s commitment to championing decentralised governance, guided by his own experience in municipal leadership.
Reflecting on the undue pressures imposed by the former administration on the City Council during his tenure as Mayor, the President emphasised that his Administration would not allow similar interference in local councils affairs. He underscored his determination to empower councils through legislative reform and wider institutional support, ensuring their autonomy, resilience, and ability to serve their communities effectively.
President Dr Muizzu highlighted several reforms and initiatives already undertaken to strengthen decentralised governance. These include the revision of allowances for Women’s Development Committees (WDCs), the initiation of new infrastructure projects led by local councils, and the formal inclusion of islands and lagoons within the jurisdictions of inhabited islands. He further noted that this integration will enable councils to pursue sustainable economic development tailored to their communities’ unique resources and needs.
The President added that his Government will facilitate proposed initiatives in alignment with the national development framework and officially approved land use plans, ensuring that all projects are implemented in a structured, sustainable, and community-responsive manner.
Concluding his address, President Dr Muizzu reaffirmed his steadfast commitment to fulfilling his pledges fairly and consistently. He expressed confidence that those who approach his Administration without prejudice will recognise the sincerity of his dedication to advancing decentralised empowerment.