Opposition MDP interim chairman Abdul Ghafoor Moosa (Gapo) said on Monday that local councils deliver more services to the public than the central government, and that people in both urban and rural areas are more satisfied with council services.
Speaking at an MDP press conference, Abdul Ghafoor said councils have “done more in a year than the government,” citing public perception studies.
“The latest study conducted by MNU in 2024 shows that people are most satisfied with the services provided by councils. People do not say that the services provided by Fenaka, schools or health centres are better,” he said.  
“People say council services are satisfactory, and that their affairs are handled easily and in an orderly manner.”
Abdul Ghafoor criticised the government’s amendment to the Decentralization Act in mid‑August, saying it has reduced the authority of councils to “the gates of their offices.”
He argued that the current administration is not facilitating the functioning of councils.
“The government is saying councils are not doing development work in the islands. That is a blatant lie,” he said, referring to recent remarks by President Mohamed Muizzu.  
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu speaks at ceremony held to inaugurate ruling PNC's office on January 8, 2026. (Photo/President's Office)
“People should not blame so many elected representatives and try to create corruption in them.”
The MDP also issued a statement on Monday condemning the President’s comments, describing them as “degrading” to councils. The party alleged that the remarks were intended to turn councils into agencies that simply implement directives from the President’s Office.
The statement urged the government not to obstruct councils’ efforts to bring development to islands, and not to amend the Decentralization Act without public consultation.
During a meeting on Thursday night to review progress of development projects across islands, President Muizzu said delays by councils in handing over land were obstructing the construction of school extensions, mosques and sports facilities.
He said projects could move faster with cooperation from councillors.
“However, if the government is opposed in implementing policies, and councils are created in ways that cause political difficulties and harm the people, it prevents us from moving in the right direction. Many places stagnate and fall behind,” he said.