Ibrahim Falah, Parliamentary Group Leader of the People’s National Congress (PNC), has stated that leaders unwilling to serve the public often treat Local Council Elections with “total indifference,” while committed leaders view them as a key priority.

Falah, who also serves as Member of Parliament for the Inguraidhoo constituency, made the remarks while speaking at a PNC event held to launch the party’s “Greater Addu Vision.”

Falah said past political leaders have often failed to treat local council elections as a serious priority. He attributed this to a lack of genuine commitment to serving the public under previous administrations, adding that President Dr Mohamed Muizzu holds a fundamentally different view.

Falah stated that Local Council Elections represent a major milestone for leaders who genuinely aim to deliver services and development to communities. He explained that councillors play a crucial role in supporting the implementation of Government development projects at the island level.

He added that leaders who are committed to public service will make every effort to secure council victories, while those who lack such commitment tend to adopt a “win or lose, it doesn’t matter” attitude. Such leaders, he said, later claim they are unable to assist residents because they do not have the support of councils.

Falah also highlighted that President Dr Muizzu’s experience in holding three key positions in Government has provided him with valuable insight into strengthening the decentralisation system.

He emphasised that the upcoming elections are important for accelerating development efforts across the Maldives in line with the President’s pledges.

Commending the PNC candidates contesting seats in Addu City, Falah said they possess a clear vision for the city’s development. He also expressed gratitude to the people of Addu on behalf of President Dr Muizzu and the party for their support in making the event a success.