Minister of Cities, Local Government and Public Works Adam Shareef Umar has stated that the government has sent a proposal related to the development of 50 councils administrative offices, to China. The proposal was sent under the government's initiative to rebuild the oldest administrative offices of local councils.
Speaking to PSM News, Minister Adam Shareef revealed that this initiative was undertaken by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, after observing the standards of the offices first hand, during his official visit to the islands. The minister noted that most councils are still working in the administrative offices, which were developed during the tenure of Former President Maumoon Abdul Gayyoom.
Furthermore, Minister Adam Shareef emphasised the importance of a good and convenient work environment to ensure that local councils can work effectively, to empower residents. However, the minister stated that as no efforts were exerted by previous governments to ensure a good working environment for councils, which has led to several obstacles including, the lack of space. Therefore, he reiterated the government's efforts to address this issue.
The government announced that the 50 council's administrative offices will be developed with the assistance of China. Minister Adam Shareef disclosed that the proposal pertaining to this development initiative has been submitted to the Chinese government. In addition to these 50 councils, the government had previously announced developing 55 councils administrative offices under the Public Sector Investment Programme (PSIP). The minister stated that the government intends to proceed with this project irrespective of the financial circumstances. He also noted that opportunities will be made available for interested parties to submit proposals under a contractor finance scheme. He affirmed that the works of the project will commence once the proposals are recieved.