President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has said his philosophy of governance is rooted in staying close to the people, addressing their concerns directly, and implementing reforms to strengthen local institutions.

Speaking on the Rayyithunnaa Eku podcast, the President noted that his visits across the islands aim to listen to communities and resolve issues without delay. He explained that ministers and State-owned enterprise leaders are encouraged to accompany him to meet with citizens, local councils, and institutional representatives, ensuring that decisions are informed by first-hand dialogue.

President Dr Muizzu said this approach has significantly improved operational efficiency, eliminating the need for residents to travel to Malé to seek solutions. He emphasised that his guiding principle is to engage directly with communities, listen to their concerns, and work towards resolving issues in collaboration with them.

Highlighting reforms to empower local councils and Women’s Development Committees (WDCs), the President noted that legal measures had already been introduced to secure entitlements such as Ramadan allowances and maternity leave. He added that the upcoming State budget will propose doubling WDC allocations from five per cent to 10 per cent to enhance women’s development initiatives.

The President also pointed to forthcoming changes in the system of block grants and in the framework for electing WDC leadership, saying further reforms would strengthen the role of councils and committees in community development.