An atoll cannot develop or progress without its Atoll Council: Nimal

The former President of the Meemu Atoll Council, Mohamed Nimal, has stated that an atoll cannot achieve progress or development without the involvement of its atoll council.

Speaking on Sunday's "Fashaairu" program, Nimāl severely criticized President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s administration for its efforts to dismantle the decentralization system. He also expressed deep concern over the decision to abolish atoll councils.

Nimal stated that the Atoll Council has provided significant assistance and support to the residents of Meemu Atoll over the past five years, addressing their needs effectively. He emphasized the necessity of having an Atoll Council, noting that such a body is essential for the holistic development and progress of the entire atoll.

Since the Atoll Council represents the presidents of all island councils, working in consultation with them significantly paves the way for the entire atoll to progress collectively. In this regard, over the past five years, the Atoll Council has provided immense assistance and cooperation to the islands of Meemu Atoll, working together as a unified team to support every community. I would go as far as to say that an atoll cannot achieve true development or move forward without the integral involvement of the Atoll Council.

Mohamed Nimal, the former President of the Meemu Atoll Council.

Responding to the government's claims that abolishing atoll councils was a cost-cutting measure, Nimal dismissed the argument as nonsensical and inconsistent. He pointed out that the only positions removed were the atoll council presidents and secretaries-general, while the government continues to appoint individuals to other roles in even greater numbers. Furthermore, Nimal noted that the salaries of all other atoll council staff, along with all other operational expenses, remain ongoing.

At present, the state of atoll councils resembles a vessel drifting without a destination. Neither the staff working there nor the Local Government Authority (LGA) has any clarity on the councils' objectives, their intended functions, or the procedures they should follow. Consequently, atoll council employees simply report to work every day and leave once they have completed their required hours.

Mohamed Nimal, the former President of the Meemu Atoll Council.

Nimal stated that the government’s move to abolish atoll councils was based on mere excuses, noting that they failed to provide a single valid justification for the decision. He further asserted that the councils were dissolved because the government’s true objective is to curtail the powers of the people.