President Dr Mohamed Muizzu on Monday commenced a four-day official tour of Baa Atoll, signalling a renewed emphasis on direct engagement with local communities and decentralised governance. The visit is part of a broader national initiative to strengthen dialogue between the government and regional constituencies.
The president’s itinerary includes 13 inhabited islands: Kamadhoo, Kudarikilu, Kendhoo, Eydhafushi, Thulhaadhoo, Goidhoo, Fehendhoo, Fulhadhoo, Hithaadhoo, Kihaadhoo, Dhonfanu, Dharavandhoo, and Maalhos. Each stop is structured to facilitate consultations with local councils and Women’s Development Committees, as well as informal meetings with residents, according to a statement by the President’s Office.
The statement outlined the objectives of the visit, noting that discussions will focus on identifying the specific developmental needs of each island and addressing the priorities most valued by their populations. Alongside institutional consultations, President Muizzu is expected to meet directly with members of the residential communities to assess their current circumstances and overall well-being.
The tour follows a series of similar visits to other regions as part of the president’s ongoing effort to conduct systematic consultations across all atolls. By institutionalising regular dialogue with councils in islands and cities throughout the country, the government aims to reinforce its commitment to participatory development and responsive governance. Accompanying the president are several cabinet ministers and senior officials from various government institutions.