Deputy Mayor of Malé City Mohamed Areesh has said that much of the work currently being carried out by the Malé City Council is based on groundwork laid during President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s tenure as mayor, supported by the continued cooperation of the People’s National Congress (PNC) majority in the council.

Areesh made the remarks while speaking at a campaign event held on Tuesday to open the PNC campaign booth in the Maafannu West constituency. He is contesting a council seat in Maafannu West in the upcoming Local Council Elections.

He said the city’s ongoing development follows the Strategic Action Plan introduced by President Dr Muizzu during his time as mayor, describing it as a clear and structured blueprint for addressing long-standing issues in the capital. Areesh said the President Dr Muizzu’s practice of visiting households across different districts to hear public concerns helped identify key problems and initiate solutions, including efforts to improve and beautify the city.

Areesh said many of the projects currently underway at the City Council are a continuation of that original plan. He also raised concerns over how credit for development work is attributed within the council, stating that while PNC councillors are actively involved in driving projects such as road works and urban improvement, their role is often not visible to the public.

He cited the Maafannu Maizaan project as an example, claiming it was an initiative he personally pursued. Areesh said he began discussions with the Maldives Islamic Bank to develop a bus stop at the site, but that the agreement was later signed by the current Mayor, who he said received public credit for the project.

Areesh said he raised the matter with President Dr Muizzu, who advised him to focus on initiating further projects that benefit the public rather than seeking recognition, stressing that public service should remain the priority.

The Deputy Mayor said the functioning of the current Mayor depends heavily on cooperation from PNC councillors, adding that most of the work carried out by the council is driven by PNC members. Without their support, he said, council operations would not progress.

Looking ahead, Areesh expressed confidence that the PNC, together with its mayoral candidate Major General (Rtd) Moosa Ali Jaleel, would complete the vision initiated by President Dr Muizzu. He said the party aims to continue transforming Malé into a more liveable and pleasant city for residents.