President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to strengthening the nation's decentralised governance system. This declaration was made on Decentralisation Day, a nationwide celebration observed on 26 February, commemorating the implementation of the country's decentralised governance structure across its administrative regions.
In his message, President Dr Muizzu underscored the administration's dedication to fortifying the decentralised framework. He used his official X account to underscore the government's collaboration with citizens to ensure meaningful empowerment.
Reflecting on the significant measures taken to address community challenges, President Dr Muizzu pointed to island visits, council consultations, and direct citizen engagement as key components of his approach. These interactions exemplify the administration's resolve to gain firsthand insights into local conditions.
Pledging to visit every inhabited island twice during his term, President Dr Muizzu has been working assiduously to empower local councils and women's development committees (WDCs). This hands-on approach highlights his commitment to local governance.
Additionally, identifying and rectifying issues within the decentralised governance system has been a focal point of his efforts. By convening meetings with nearly all local councils, several of them more than once, he aims to pinpoint challenges and develop effective solutions.
Over the past year, numerous issues raised by local councils have been addressed successfully, demonstrating the administration's responsiveness. Expanding the jurisdiction of local councils remains a key priority, with recent additions such as Ufulandhoo within Maduvvari, Raa Atoll, and Thaavathaa within Meedhoo, Raa Atoll. Another significant decision saw Bodufinolhu integrated into Gan, Laamu Atoll.
Empowering WDCs has also seen notable progress, with a landmark decision to provide Ramadan allowances to their members. This initiative was actualised through an amendment to the Decentralisation Act, ensuring all WDC members will receive allowances starting the upcoming fasting month.
Stimulating economic activities at the local level, the administration has leased uninhabited islands to local councils. Four islands have been allocated to three councils: Inguraidhoo in Raa Atoll, Dhaalu Atoll Council, and Maavah in Laamu Atoll. Additionally, five more councils have proposed leasing seven uninhabited islands, according to government sources.
In a further demonstration of commitment to local governance, the administration is embarking on an extensive project to construct local council secretariat buildings. This initiative will provide 105 local councils with new buildings, with groundbreaking ceremonies for several projects already completed. Within the next two years, the administration aims to ensure that 71 percent of all local councils will have new secretariat buildings.