Previous directive rescinded: Local councils instructed not to use official budgets for members' travel expenses to vote

The Local Government Authority (LGA) has reversed its earlier directive, now instructing councils not to use their budgets to cover travel expenses for members traveling to vote in the upcoming election for the LGA Board. The election is held to select representatives from among councilors and presidents of Women's Development Committees.

In a letter dispatched to all local councils on July 13, instructions were previously issued for the councils to cover all travel expenses related to voting from their respective administrative budgets.

In a letter sent to councils on August 4, it was stated that council budgets should not be used to cover the travel expenses of members traveling to vote. The letter further noted that the Ministry of Finance had instructed the Local Government Authority (LGA) to ensure that such expenditures are not incurred.

"Therefore, in accordance with the instructions from the Ministry of Finance, we advise councils to refrain from utilizing their budgets to cover travel expenses or any other arrangements for members traveling to cast their votes in this election," stated a letter sent to councils, signed by Mohamed Nimal, the Chief Executive Officer of the Local Government Authority (LGA).

As this situation unfolds, many observers have noted that it has become a common trend under the current administration to abruptly reverse prior decisions and issue conflicting directives.