Central government dependency has returned following current administration's amendments to Decentralization Act: Hulhudheli Council

The President of the Dhaalu Hulhudheli Island Council, Ahmed Nasru, has expressed concern over recent legislative amendments to the Decentralization Act introduced by the current administration, stating that these changes have created significant obstacles to the council's administrative and operational functions.

Speaking on RaajjeTV’s "Fashaairu" program, the President of the Hulhudheli Island Council stated that the current situation marks a return to an era where local councils are forced to beg the central government for support. He emphasized that islands must now seek independent revenue streams to fund their own development projects rather than remaining solely reliant on the state.

Nasru stated that with Hulhudheli being an attractive location for local tourism, the council's current objective is to explore avenues for further infrastructure and tourism development. He further noted that the council aims to establish the island as a premier tourist destination by developing areas designed to appeal to visitors.

However, he noted that the recent amendments to the Decentralization Act would also present challenges in addressing those issues.

Furthermore, Nasru noted that the dissolution of atoll councils has led to significant challenges. He also highlighted that the Local Government Authority (LGA) has been unable to provide adequate support to the councils.

The President of the Hulhudheli Council highlighted key concerns regarding administrative challenges in local governance and difficulties in securing government assistance. He emphasized that, under these circumstances, islands must independently generate revenue to facilitate their own development projects.

Numerous councils have expressed concern over the amendments made to the Decentralization Act by the current administration.