As the powers of local councils are being undermined, I hope PNC councilors will also join MDP protest: Nasheed

Former President and MDP Chairperson Mohamed Nasheed has stated that he expects PNC councillors to join the MDP in protesting against any attempts to undermine the powers of local councils.

In a post on X on Wednesday, Nasheed stated that as efforts are being made to strip councils of the powers granted under the Decentralization Act, he hopes that councilors from the ruling PNC will join the MDP in protest.

Nasheed stated that PNC members of the People's Majlis have effectively surrendered their own legislative powers to vest all authority in President Muizzu. He further noted that these members are now expressing regret over that decision.

PNC members of parliament have effectively stripped themselves of their own powers, surrendering all authority to President Dr. Muizzu. Today, these members are living to regret that decision.

Mohamed Nasheed

Furthermore, Nasheed stated that this trip is specifically intended for PNC councilors.

Nasheed has called upon PNC councillors to set aside political ideologies and stand against the ongoing erosion of powers granted to local councils under the decentralization system. This appeal comes as the MDP prepares to hold a large-scale protest in Male' on August 13, 2026, under the slogan "Dhadhivejje" (We are Distressed).

Many citizens are raising concerns that President Muizzu's administration is imposing restrictions across all sectors. There is also widespread public criticism regarding efforts to bring significant changes to the decentralization system and curtail the powers of local councillors. Major amendments have already been made to the Decentralization Act, resulting in the dissolution of atoll councils. Furthermore, measures have been implemented that effectively prevent councils from functioning during the final term of their tenure.