Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Local Government Authority (LGA) Dr. Mariyam Zulfa has revealed that political parties will engage in discussions to gather their perspectives on decentralisation.
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu recently proposed reforms to the decentralisation system, suggesting a reduction in the number of councillors to improve service delivery. He also noted that the current system is overly complex and inefficient due to the large size of the councils.
Additionally, President Dr. Muizzu recommended electing three councillors for populations under 3,000, which comprises a council president, a women’s representative, and a youth representative. For populations between 3,000 and 10,000, he recommended appointing five councillors.
In support of President Dr. Muizzu’s proposal, Dr. Zulfa stated that the suggested changes to the councils and the decentralisation Act are not unprecedented. She emphasised that the formula recommended by President Muizzu represents the most effective approach to decentralisation, and stressed the importance of incorporating the views of political parties in shaping the system. As such, she said that discussions with all political parties will be conducted. The Ministry of Cities, Local Government, and Public Works is currently conducting studies to inform potential adjustments to the decentralisation system.
Additionally, Dr. Zulfa also highlighted that the Maldives has previously collaborated with the International Republican Institute (IRI), affiliated with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), during the initial introduction and strengthening of the decentralisation system. She also said that the changes will be reviewed with the Speaker and Deputy Speaker of Parliament, as well as a parliamentary committee.