Galolhu South MP Meekail Ahmed Naseem today submitted a resolution condemning the government's decision to seize 14 plots of land previously under the jurisdiction of the Male’ City Council.
The resolution highlights that the government has failed to provide any details regarding the projects planned for these lands beyond their names. It further notes that the decision was made without any consultation or input from the City Council.
"Making such a decision at a time when the Council is formulating vital development plans and projects that would greatly benefit the public is an action that could cause harm to both the Council and the beloved citizens of Male’," the resolution stated.
The 14 plots designated for seizure include major public spaces such as the Male’ Fish Market, Sultan Park, the Carnival area, Artificial Beach, and Rasfannu.
Meekail said these lands are key revenue sources for the Male’ City Council and are integral to the budget allocated for providing essential services to the public. He emphasised that the seizure of these properties would result in the loss of critical financial benefits for the Council.
Furthermore, the resolution asserts that the government's decision obstructs the decentralisation system and narrows the legal powers of local councils. It also contends that the decision was finalised without following the procedures stipulated in the Decentralisation Act.
In response to the issue, the Male’ City Council has held an emergency meeting and passed a resolution to seek a court injunction to halt the government's decision and to file a constitutional case with the Supreme Court. While legal and political efforts to oppose the seizure have commenced, the Council is also working to submit a formal objection within the 14-day window provided by the Ministry for filing complaints.
