Opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has condemned the decision by Local Government Authority (LGA) to restrict Councils.

The Party’s statement came after Councilors of Gaaf Alif Atoll Council were suspended following their meeting with Indian Ambassador to the Maldives Akhilesh Mishra. The Councilors were suspended for three months without pay.

The statement called the decision a ‘dictatorial’ one and one that seeks to overpower the current system. MDP said the decision further proved that the Government had no intention of allowing the decentralized system of governance to function properly.

The Party added that foreign diplomats were partners in national development and therefore, developing and strengthening relations was a vital aspect for the development of any island. MDP added that direct meetings with diplomats allowed for more open communication and transparency with regards to the situation in the Maldives.

The central Government’s responsibility, the statement said, was to allow Councils to thrive independently and allow to Councils to serve their Constituents. Such heavy-handed decisions, only serves to close off opportunities open to Constituents, it noted.

It further called on the Authority to allow Councilors and Councils to fulfill their mandate and revoke the suspension on the Councilors.