President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has announced a landmark constitutional amendment to eliminate Atoll Councils, declaring it a decisive step toward empowering island communities and strengthening accountable governance.
Speaking during a community gathering in Mathiveri on his ongoing atoll tour, the President confirmed that the amendment will be tabled in the People’s Majlis as soon as the parliament reconvenes after recess. The change is expected to take effect before the upcoming Council elections scheduled for March next year.
“The Atoll Council is an unnecessary layer in our decentralized system” President Muizzu said. “When citizens go to vote in the next Local Council elections, they will no longer need to elect an Atoll Council. Removing that layer empowers people directly, allowing Island Councils to work hand in hand with ministries and state companies”.
Empowering Councils and Ensuring Accountability
The President emphasized that every Island Council would agree that Atoll Councils serve no practical purpose. By streamlining governance, the government aims to create a system where accountability, transparency, and checks and balances remain at the core.
“We will never obstruct councils from working for the people” President Muizzu assured. “This government is here to empower councils with the tools and authority they need. Our goal is to establish good governance that truly serves the public”.
Amendments to Decentralization Act
President Muizzu also unveiled further amendments to the Decentralization Act, including resizing councils to reflect population levels. Islands with fewer than 2,000 residents will elect three-member councils, while larger islands will have five-member councils. The same structure will apply to Women’s Development Committees (WDCs).
In a historic move to enhance women’s representation, the President confirmed that WDC chairpersons will henceforth be elected by all island residents, and the role will be made full-time. “This is a reform designed to empower women and resolve the challenges many WDCs face today” he added.
City Councils, however, will continue under the current system, ensuring continuity in urban governance.
Toward a More Efficient System
Earlier amendments to the Decentralization Act came into force just last week, but President Muizzu affirmed that his administration will continue refining the framework to deliver governance that is lean, efficient, and people-focused.
“With these reforms, we are removing inefficiencies, cutting unnecessary layers, and making councils stronger” the President said. “Our commitment is simple: empowering citizens, ensuring accountability, and building a government that truly works for the people”.
