MP Saleem strongly criticizes local councils, alleging that some are operating as if they are independent governments

The Maldives is a unitary state, yet some local councils are operating under the illusion that they are independent governments, stated Ahmed Saleem, Deputy Speaker of the People’s Majlis and Member of Parliament for the Eydhafushi constituency.

Speaking at Sunday's parliamentary sitting, MP Saleem noted that Article 2 of the Constitution defines the Maldives as a fully independent, sovereign, democratic, and unitary state based on Islamic principles. He emphasized that this framework in no way constitutes a federal system.

MP Saleem stated that some councils are acting in a manner that undermines the characteristics of a unitary state.

Therefore, Mr. Speaker, it appears some councils are under the impression that our unitary state has changed, leading them to believe they operate as independent governments. During recent visits to several islands, I observed instances where disputes between two islands escalated to the point where residents were barred from entering the neighboring island, driven entirely by the influence of these councils. It must be clear that whether it is the President or any other official, the President remains the supreme head of the state.

Ahmed Saleem

In this regard, MP Saleem cited an example of a dispute between two islands where, due to the influence of local councils, the situation escalated to the point where residents from one island were being barred from entering the other.

Furthermore, MP Saleem stated that as the Head of State, the President must have the authority to take all necessary measures to reform the nation. He added that any required legislative amendments are facilitated through the People's Majlis, within the framework of the separation of powers.

MP Saleem expressed concern that if matters are left unaddressed, there is a risk that individual atolls may eventually declare autonomy, potentially reaching a point where the central government can no longer exercise its authority.

Member Saleem's remarks come at a time when the government is introducing amendments aimed at curtailing the powers granted to councils under the Decentralization Act. In addition to President Muizzu, several high-ranking government officials have also leveled serious allegations against the local councils.

However, as the decentralized system is widely accepted by the majority of Maldivians, the government has faced significant public criticism over the curtailment of these powers. Critics argue that these changes are being implemented to marginalize the public and centralize authority.