The Maldives thrived in several areas, under the incumbent administration's decentralized form of governance, says President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.

The president made these remarks in his address to the public in commemoration of Republic Day, on Saturday morning.

The archipelago nation became a republic in 1968, after many years as a monarchy and celebrates its Republic Day on November 11 each year.

Addressing the public, President Solih stated that his administration’s decentralized governance initiatives have led to substantial changes that assisted the island nation to succeed in several areas.

Shedding light on the substantial reforms the administration has implemented in a bid to improve decentralized governance as a means to pave way for further development, President Solih highlighted that a centralized form of governance system would hinder the country’s progress.

Going on to shed light on changes to the nation's governance, the Maldivian leader noted that decentralization paves the path for nationwide high-quality healthcare and education.

Further, he stated that the initiatives undertaken by the government to establish tertiary-level hospitals in five regions of the country were a complete solution to challenges faced in the health sector.

President Solih stressed on the administration’s nationwide mental health awareness initiative as well.

Highlighting that the highest number of achievements in international tournaments in the history of Maldivian sports were observed in the past five years, President Solih noted that the administration had facilitated various trainings and promoted inclusivity by allowing the participation of all athletes without discrimination in its efforts to develop teams and individual sports.

The Maldivian leader also noted the improvements made in the decentralization of social services and added that the administration developed state care facilities for children in the state's care in seven regions, increasing the quality of social services throughout the country.

President Solih shed light on the improvements observed in the financial support provided to individuals with disabilities and stated that the administration has established a comprehensive network of services assisting people with disabilities acquire the support they require.

The administration has made significant strides towards equitable development across the entire Maldives, including enhancing the quality of life for citizens and empowering them to lead dignified lives, under the capable leadership of President Solih.