Genuine decentralised empowerment, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has said, can only be realised through an unprejudiced approach that ensures fairness, consistency, and respect for local autonomy. By removing undue interference and fostering trust between the Government and councils, communities are able to shape their own development in a way that is both sustainable and inclusive.

Reaffirming this vision, President Dr Muizzu pledged to shield councils from the challenges he personally encountered during his tenure as Mayor. Speaking to residents of Kulhudhuffushi City as part of his tour of the inhabited islands of South Thiladhunmathi Atoll, he underscored his Administration’s commitment to strengthening decentralised governance and equipping councils to avoid similar obstacles.

Addressing concerns over the 16th Amendment to the Decentralisation Act, the President reiterated that his policies are guided by first-hand municipal experience. He recalled the pressures exerted on the City Council during his mayoral term and assured that such interference would not be repeated under his Government. Instead, he stressed that legislative reform and institutional support would be pursued to secure councils’ autonomy and resilience.

President Dr Muizzu also outlined initiatives already introduced to reinforce decentralisation. These include the revision of allowances for Women’s Development Committees (WDCs), new infrastructure projects managed by councils, and the extension of council jurisdictions to cover islands and lagoons linked to inhabited islands. He noted that this would enable councils to develop local economies by utilising resources unique to their regions.

He further emphasised that all development initiatives would align with the national framework and officially approved land use plans, ensuring structured and sustainable progress while remaining responsive to community needs.