Style of governance needs altering to produce results: Deputy Speaker Nazim

Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Ahmed Nazim has stated today that the country's governance system is structured in a costly manner that fails to produce results, opining that it is necessary to bring changes to the style of governance.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the Parliament Induction Program held by Westminster Foundation for Democracy (WFD) today, Nazim said that while Maldives has spent 15 years under the Constitution enforced in 2008, the extent of successful implementation and government expenditure must be reflected on.

He emphasized the importance of ensuring financial responsibility in light of the country's situation today and added that there are certain reformations required for this development.

"We need to think about the style of governance once again, bring changes, improve things and review some things again," said the Deputy Speaker of Parliament.

He had further recalled an example to demonstrate the State's high expenditure, stating that five councilors remain in islands with a populace of two to three hundred. He also added that the law mandates the State to issue five percent of the government's income as block grant.

"Ordinary citizens will think about this. Raise questions on whether democracy should really be this expensive," Nazim affirmed.

This comes after President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's announcement that a decision has been reached to limit the number of local councilors after asserting that the councils incepted under the decentralization system are expansive to the point of becoming a heavy burden on the State.

The President had therefore stated that an amendment to alter the composition of councils will be proposed to the parliament.

Speaking at today's ceremony, Nazim had also urged to hear the people's voice and concerns while stressing the importance of aligning legislation work with the public's wishes.

He also highlighted the importance of self-accountability, holding others accountable, maintaining integrity and preserving the separation of powers while proceeding with parliament affairs.

Asserting the need to practice vigilance in monitoring committee procedures to preserve a transparent and accountable parliament system, Nazim added that public participation must also be increased in decision making. He urged parliamentarians to augment their role in encouraging and increasing public participation through solid discussions and scientific research.

Nazim said that parliament affairs must ensue with unity and amiability in consideration of the UN's 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development to preserve democratic fundamentals and achieve national goals.

He also entreated members to abstain from political disagreements and produce effective results for the people.

"We need to move forward in the truest sense while working to preserve a parliament that represents the people's hopes and ideals," said Nazim.