President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has raised concern over the underutilisation of block grants allocated to local councils, urging them to prioritise development projects that benefit communities.

Speaking to residents of Eydhafushi, Baa Atoll, during his ongoing tour of the atoll’s inhabited islands, the President revealed that while the Government disbursed MVR 2.2 billion in block grants last year, MVR 1.4 billion remains idle in council accounts.

He stressed that the funds are intended to support municipal services and community projects, reminding councils of their core mandate to implement Government policies and serve the public. The President called on councils to focus on development needs, putting aside political differences and personal preferences.

The President highlighted that councils have also retained a large portion of the block grants issued this year, noting that the purpose for doing so remains unclear. He added that some councils spend the funds on wasteful activities, such as travelling abroad for experimental trips, urging against such practices and calling on councils to use the money allocated by the Government for the benefit of the public.