Minister of Cities, Local Government, and Public Works Adam Shareef Umar has announced that ID card and passport services will be introduced in all atolls during the current presidential term. His remarks came following the launch of ID card services in Villingili, Gaafu Alifu Atoll, marking the first time such services have been made available outside the capital, Malé.
Minister Adam Shareef highlighted that this expansion of services aligns with President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s pledge to bring essential government services closer to the people through decentralization. The launch in Villingili is a testament to this commitment, he stated.
He further emphasised that establishing a system for councils to manage centralised services like ID card and passport issuance is a key aspect of President Dr. Muizzu’s vision. This move demonstrates the increasing empowerment of local councils under the president's leadership. The minister reiterated that ID card and passport issuance services will be rolled out across all atolls during this term.
Minister Adam Shareef also mentioned that local councils have shown strong interest in fulfilling the president's promise of providing these services in provincial areas, with many councils offering substantial cooperation in this effort.
The minister noted that this collaboration between the government and local councils reflects the creation of an environment where both can work effectively together, further strengthening multi-party democracy in the Maldives.