The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Local Government Authority (LGA) Dr. Zulfa has announced plans to amend regulations to require local Council members to complete a course approved by the Maldives Qualification Authority (MQA) before taking their oaths. Dr. Zulfa made this statement during an address to the Decentralisation Committee of the Parliament.
During her speech, Dr. Zulfa expressed concerns raised by residents about the capability of Council members to fulfill their legal duties. She noted that although some members pledge to implement changes or introduce new initiatives, they often lack a full understanding of their responsibilities. Despite ongoing training efforts, Dr. Zulfa stated that these measures have not provided a long-term solution.
To address this issue sustainably, Dr. Zulfa proposed that Council members should be required to complete an MQA-approved course before assuming their roles. She emphasized the importance of developing a training program or course specifically for Council members, approved by the MQA, to ensure they are well-prepared for their duties.
According to the Decentralisation Act, Council members are responsible for administering the island, developing the island, and providing residential services in accordance with the constitution and the law. They must also prepare the island development plan and land use plan in line with the national development plan and share these plans with the Atoll Council and the government.