Parliament passes amendments cutting council seats and permitting projects without council consent

The Parliament on Thursday approved amendments to the Decentralization Act, reducing the number of councillors in smaller islands and introducing a clause allowing the government to carry out projects without council approval.  

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has previously said the reduction is aimed at cutting costs. The proposal to reduce councillors was submitted by PNC Parliamentary Group Leader Ibrahim Falaah.  

In addition to committee-stage changes, Funadhoo MP Mohamed Mamdooh moved an amendment enabling the government to seek permits for projects and activities directly from the Local Government Authority (LGA) if councils fail to issue them within a reasonable time. The amendment was backed by Dhidhdhoo MP Abdul Latheef Mohamed.  

The amendment passed with a supermajority of 56 votes. The bill itself was approved with 54 votes in favour, while 11 members voted against.  

Key changes to 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 City Council: Male councillors elected in proportion to parliamentary constituencies  

• Fuvahmulah City Council: 9 councillors  

• Addu City Council: 11 councillors  

On Tuesday, Parliament also amended the Constitution to abolish Atoll Councils.  

The opposition has voiced strong dissatisfaction, arguing that the government is weakening the decentralization system by reducing elected positions rather than political appointments.