President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has announced the decision to extend the jurisdiction of local councils to 700m.
Speaking at a press conference, President Muizzu said the Cabinet made the decision to increase the benefits of decentralization. He said that the principles of decentralization are not being properly followed and that islands are deprived from receiving financial benefits from the surrounding area.
Additionally, President Muizzu said that a separate policy will be implemented to allow the local councils to receive benefits from nearby islands. As such, he said that he will prioritise commencing projects that align with the government's 20-year development master plan on islands within or near the jurisdiction of local councils.
During the presidential campaign, many local councils have stated that they need government assistance in developing the islands in their jurisdiction. They also requested permission to use uninhabited islands for tourism.