Local councils will undertake majority of development projects after council elections: President

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has stated local councils will undertake the majority of development projects after the upcoming local council elections.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of Thiladhunmathi Iruvai Conference, held by Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) in Kulhudhuffushi City, President Solih said the amendments brought to the Decentralisation Act will significantly boost the development of the country. Noting councils have been granted financial independence and the authority to conduct development projects, the president said the central administration will hereafter only conduct projects related to education, healthcare and housing, while rest of the projects will be overseen by local councils. He added councils will also be granted the authority to run commercial businesses through corporate societies.

President Solih noted the changes to the decentralisation system will allow the administration to bring the development it has envisioned for the country. He said the administration is dedicated to empower local councils and strengthen local governance in the country.

While the president stated local councils will be tasked with conducting majority of development projects, the administration is also working on facilitating sovereign guarantees for projects conducted by councils.