President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has said Major General (Retd) Moosa Ali Jaleel is the ideal candidate for the Mayor of Malé City to ensure closer cooperation with the Government in implementing development projects at an accelerated pace.

Speaking at PNC’s mayoral candidates’ office, the President said he requested Jaleel to run for the mayoral post, stating that the Administration requires a mayor who would work in coordination with the Government to deliver projects and fulfil pledges made to the residents of Malé City. He thanked Jaleel for accepting the nomination, describing him as a committed and sincere nationalist.

The President also announced that he would take part in door-to-door campaigning in Malé City ahead of the upcoming local council elections. Recalling his own tenure as Mayor of Malé, President Dr Muizzu said he maintained close contact with residents during that period and remains familiar with the concerns faced by the city’s population.

Addressing development priorities, the President reiterated that access to housing remains the most pressing issue for residents. He said housing units and land plots approved under the previous administration have now been handed over, while large-scale reclamation and development projects are progressing with Hulhumalé Phase III reclamation almost completed and Rasmalé scheduled to complete in April. He added that by April, land allocation processes for Rasmalé will be completed with the recipient list published. Furthermore, he added that land allocation for Gulhifalhu and Giraavarufalhu are ongoing.

The President said such projects require a dedicated and trustworthy mayor and council team to ensure timely delivery. He also spoke on reforms related to Women’s Development Committees, noting that limited cooperation had been observed over the past five years. He said the Government plans to introduce changes under which committee presidents would be full-time and directly elected. In this regard, the President expressed confidence in Uza Aishath Alaika Adnan, who is contesting for the presidency of the Malé City Women’s Development Committee at his request.

Concluding his remarks, President Dr Muizzu appealed to the people of Malé City to support candidates who would work constructively with the Government. He said the Administration remains committed to listening to public concerns and urged voters to avoid political discord that could hinder development efforts, calling instead for cooperation to advance the needs of the city.