President of Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) Mohamed Nasheed has stated the people of Maldives will receive the opportunity to have a bigger say in governance following the local council elections.
Speaking at a campaign event held by MDP, Nasheed said major changes will be brought to the system of governance under the amendments made to the Decentralisation Act. In this regard, he noted the main government will no longer dictate terms of development in the islands, adding the power has now been transferred to the people.
Nasheed added women will play an important role in implementing the changes brought through the Decentralisation Act, noting the 33% allocated from council seats to women is an important opportunity provided for women to increase their contribution to the governance of islands. He also stated the amendments will bring in a new era of development with the new budgets allocated to councils and the facilities and property transferred under the jurisdiction of councils.
Speaking at the event, President of MDP Women's Wing Sifa Mohamed said the women of MDP will not back down from anything they come forward to achieve, as proven in the last seven years. In this regard, she noted the women of MDP worked hard for the rights that have been provided by the current administration such as the six-month maternity leave and free higher education.
The campaign event by MDP includes stalls to provide information on the projects conducted by the administration as well as projects planned for the future. The event also includes information sessions aimed at creating awareness on the role to be played by women in the development of the nation.