Jumhooree Party leader and Maamigili MP Qasim Ibrahim has declared his firm support for the 16th Amendment to the Decentralization Act, describing it as a crucial step to safeguard the Maldives’ unitary system of governance.
In a statement published on X, Qasim stressed that the Constitution clearly defines the Maldives as a unitary state, not a federal one. He warned that attempts to misuse decentralization laws for political gain risk undermining this principle. “No law should be drafted in a way that conflicts with the powers and framework of a unitary state” he said.
Qasim endorsed President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s position that the reforms are necessary to strengthen and “champion” decentralization while ensuring it remains aligned with the national framework. He highlighted that councils must not exploit loopholes in the law to create unnecessary jobs, allocate land, or initiate unsanctioned projects for electoral advantage. “Such practices burden state finances and distort fair governance” he noted, pointing out that current council terms will expire in May 2026, making accountability even more urgent.
The JP leader also emphasized that the amendment introduces much-needed restrictions on Local Authority Companies. Under the new provisions, councils cannot engage in businesses already run by private citizens, a move Qasim argued will protect local entrepreneurs and deliver greater benefits to the general public.
He further cautioned against politically motivated development projects outside agreed community plans, stating that such actions cause “immense damage” to the country. Instead, the amendment ensures transparency and prioritizes people’s welfare over narrow political interests.
With his endorsement, Qasim joined President Muizzu in affirming that the reforms will reinforce the country’s governance model, prevent misuse of public resources, and ultimately serve the long-term interests of Maldivians.
