President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has called for public discussion on potential reforms to the structure and election of local councils, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to democratic principles and citizen engagement.
Addressing residents of Fiyoari in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll on Tuesday evening, President Muizzu highlighted his proposal to reduce the number of councillors while ensuring that any changes would be made in consultation with the public. He acknowledged concerns that such reductions could impact democratic representation but emphasized that reforms would be designed to preserve the core values of democracy.
Outlining potential solutions, President Muizzu suggested that while the number of councillors could remain unchanged, key positions such as council president and vice president could be converted into full-time roles, with other councillors receiving allowances on a per-session basis. He noted that similar models are adopted in several developed nations and maintained that such an approach would strike a balance between efficiency and representation.
The President also proposed changes to the Women’s Development Committees (WDCs), suggesting that the president and vice president of each WDC could hold full-time positions, while other members would receive allowances for meetings attended. He assured that any legislative amendments would ensure fair compensation for part-time members under the same legal provisions as their full-time counterparts.
Regarding city councils, President Muizzu recommended that mayors and deputy mayors be elected as full-time executive leaders, while other members could function in part-time advisory capacities with allowances for their participation in meetings.
To ensure broad public participation, the President called for a national debate on the proposals, urging citizens to share their views and engage in constructive discussions. “I want the people to share their thoughts—not just in formal meetings but in informal conversations as well. The goal is to arrive at the most suitable solution for our communities,” he stated.
President Muizzu concluded his address by emphasizing his administration’s dedication to inclusive governance, noting that development initiatives will continue to be carried out in consultation with the people. “We want to build a system that reflects the will of the people, ensuring that we move forward in a way that represents their vision,” he said.
