Former Member of Parliament Ali Azim has pledged to transform Male' into a smart city if elected mayor, promising a cleaner, safer, and more connected urban environment for residents.
Azim launched his campaign at Artificial Beach on Thursday evening, announcing his candidacy in the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) mayoral primary. Addressing party members, he emphasized the need for transparency in the Male' City Council’s finances and called for public scrutiny of how previous administrations spent public funds.
In a veiled critique of the incumbent mayor, Azim said citizens deserve more than basic services like drain cleaning, tree planting, and cemetery renovations. “We must provide a clean life, a beautiful environment where families can thrive and children can play safely,” he said.
Azim also criticized the trajectory of governance since the presidency of Mohamed Nasheed, the first elected leader under the Green Constitution. He claimed that subsequent officeholders have exploited their positions for personal gain, worsening conditions for city residents.
Former Member of Parliament Ali Azim speaks at the MDP mayoral primary on November 20, 2025. (Sun Photo/Moosa Nadheem)
“I’m running to bring a prosperous ‘another Male'’ to the people,” Azim declared, outlining plans to improve parking, pedestrian access, and economic opportunities.
He said his smart city vision includes digital access to council services, improved public safety, and urban infrastructure designed to reduce crime. “You’ll see less fighting, robbery, and theft. Services will be accessible from your phone,” he said.