Fayyaz Accuses Gov’t of Eroding Public Confidence in Councils

The government is attempting to erode public trust in local councils, according to Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail. 

Speaking at the MDP’s “Laamarukazee Gulhun” conference in Haa Dhaalu atoll Kulhudhuffushi, Fayyaz alleged that recent government actions aim to weaken councils’ authority by reducing councillor numbers and amending laws governing local councils.

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Fayyaz claimed these measures portray councillors as ineffective and unaccountable, suggesting that council members are “more interested in personal trips and entertainment than in serving the people.” He noted that the MDP plans to counter this image by raising awareness among the public.

Addressing why recent amendments to the Infrastructure Planning and Administration Act and the Decentralisation Act were not blocked in Parliament, Fayyaz said MDP’s 12 MPs were unable to oppose the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) coalition’s supermajority. However, he highlighted that all members of parliament, including those in PNC, are accountable to the public.

The MDP argues that decentralisation, revised by their administration in 2019, is now at risk. According to the party, the recent amendments, ratified by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, centralise planning powers and reduce council positions, which the MDP claims undermines the principles of decentralisation.

Public Will Oppose Limitations on Local Power, Says Solih

Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih expressed concern over the government’s approach to decentralisation at the same conference, stating that citizens would resist any attempts to diminish their rights. Criticising the establishment of the Ministry of Cities and Local Government, Solih argued it centralises council powers within the executive, reducing local autonomy. He warned that this shift in governance signals a move toward autocracy.

Solih described democracy as more than voting and emphasised the need for ongoing public engagement, warning that the Maldives’ citizens would oppose any attempt to restrict their representation.

The “Laamarukazee Gulhun” conference, set to continue until next Tuesday, aims to inform council members about the MDP’s view on government actions concerning decentralisation and gather feedback on strengthening the system.

During his address, Solih alleged that the government of Muizzu had used “lies, deception, and discord” to come into power, adding that claims made by the ruling administration concerning the former MDP government have been contradicted by its actions. Referring to President Muizzu’s recent visit to India, Solih noted that the government has renewed several agreements made by the previous administration without modifications.

Meanwhile, Male’ City Mayor Adam Azim, also an MDP member, shared his perspective on government cooperation with the capital’s council. Speaking at the conference, Azim noted that the Male’ City Council had encountered no obstacles in its work with the government.

Azim disclosed that the council had employed 15 consultants, all MDP members, at monthly salaries of MVR 30,000 and above. Responding to Azim’s statement, Fayyaz requested that the number of consultants not be included in official statements shared on social media.

Azim added that PNC members on the council had also collaborated in initiatives to benefit the public and noted that the council’s work is conducted in a transparent and cooperative manner.