Concerns over govt repossession of 14 Male’ land plots without consulting council

Former Vice President Faisal Naseem has voiced concern over the government’s decision to repossess land under the jurisdiction of the Malé City Council, questioning the move in the absence of clear explanations.

The government has decided to repossess 14 plots of land in Malé, including the Fish Market, Sultan Park, and the Carnival area, from the Malé City Council: a decision which has drawn strong criticism from senior figures within the main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP).

In a post on X on Friday, Faisal Naseem said that under a decentralized system, development should be advanced by strengthening councils financially and respecting their jurisdiction, rather than curtailing their authority. He questioned the rationale behind reclaiming 14 plots of land simultaneously and expressed particular concern over the apparent lack of consultation with the council. He stressed that the central government should operate in a manner that preserves the autonomy of local councils and enables them to function effectively.

Malé City Mayor Adam Azim expressed similar concerns, stating that decentralisation is intended to empower citizens, not deprive them of their rights by reclaiming powers from elected councils. He maintained that councils must be provided with the authority, resources, and independence necessary to serve the public effectively. Azim accused President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s administration of withholding essential resources, including land and funding, which he said were necessary for the council to fulfil its constitutional responsibilities.

"These actions raise serious concerns about the future of the decentralized system in the Maldives. The MDP will return to power to restore the rights and resources that have been taken away from the councils," Azim stated.

Former MDP Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail also criticised the decision, describing President Muizzu as an "enemy" of the decentralised system rather than a supporter of it. "His conduct towards the City Council during his tenure as Housing Minister made this clear. As Mayor, he demanded full authority, yet as President, he is incrementally stripping that authority away, culminating in today's reclamation of nearly all significant land in the capital," Fayyaz remarked.

He further argued that the central government should not dictate terms to a council elected by Malé residents to manage their own affairs. He reiterated that national development is closely linked to the devolution of power.

The amendment to the Decentralization Act, which took effect last September, allows the central government to remove land and facilities from the jurisdiction of local and city councils for the purpose of implementing development projects.