Parliament on Thursday passed amendments to the Decentralization Act, reducing councillor numbers in smaller islands and allowing the government to proceed with projects without council approval.
President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has said the reduction aims to cut costs. The proposal was introduced by PNC Parliamentary Group Leader Ibrahim Falaah.
During committee review, Funadhoo MP Mohamed Mamdooh added a clause allowing the government to obtain permits directly from the Local Government Authority (LGA) if councils fail to issue them in time, with Dhidhdhoo MP Abdul Latheef Mohamed backing the change.
The new clause passed with 56 votes. The full bill was approved with 54 votes in favour and 11 against.
Revised council composition:
- Islands with fewer than 2,000 residents: 3 councillors, including at least 1 woman
- Islands with more than 2,000 residents: 5 councillors, including at least 2 women
- Malé: Seats linked to parliamentary constituencies
- Fuvahmulah: 9 councillors
- Addu: 11 councillors
On Tuesday, Parliament also approved a constitutional amendment removing Atoll Councils.
The opposition argues the changes weaken decentralization by cutting elected roles instead of political appointees.