President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has stated that he does not support the concept of Local Government Authority (LGA) taking action against local councils, and the government's policy is to empower and collaborate with the councils.
Speaking at Dhaalu atoll Meedhoo, President Muizzu said the councils wish the government to do what the people want, and he wants to empower the councils and facilitate government services through councils.
"This is why we want to establish council buildings. This is why we have decided to give islands to councils to generate revenue. Therefore, by giving full powers to councils, citizens will also be empowered," he said.
President Muizzu said it was not his policy to take action against councils, create hurdles, or impose restrictions.
"I would not support any such actions by the LGA as well. The government will not create any obstructions to any councils," he said.
"We will give councils full autonomy to work on behalf of the people with full independence, and we will continue to do so.
President Muizzu's statement comes following LGA's directive to Noonu atoll Kendhikulhudhoo Council to revoke the statement, citing it was factually incorrect.
The CEO of LGA is appointed by the President. Dr Mariyam Zulfa currently holds the position of LGA CEO.
Kendhikulhudhoo Council, comprising members of the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), issued a statement alleging that President Muizzu is misusing state resources to campaign for candidates aligned with the government during his current tour of the islands.
LGA has requested the council to retract the statement. However, the President of Kendhukulhudhoo Council said in a Facebook post that they would not retract the statement as there are no legal grounds to do so.
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