.svg)
This move marks a major step toward shifting land control from elected local councils back to the central government, directly impacting local governance and sparking concerns over the erosion of decentralized authority in the Maldives.
News Desk
Peoples' Majlis sitting - Photo: Majlis
MALÉ: The People’s Majlis has accepted a proposed amendment to the Decentralisation Act that allows the Cabinet to reclaim land and properties under local council jurisdiction, sending the bill to the Committee on Decentralisation for further review after concluding debate in a single day.
The bill was introduced last Wednesday by independent Thulhaadhoo MP Abdul Hannan Aboobakuru, who regularly sponsors legislation aligned with government policies. Debate opened during Monday’s parliamentary sitting and was wrapped up in roughly 30 minutes before being put to a vote.
– Vote Outcome: The bill was accepted for committee study with 55 ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) MPs voting in favor, while 55 members voted against rejecting the bill.
– Fast-Tracked Process: While standard parliamentary practice allows two to three days for floor debate, Speaker Abdul Raheem Abdulla closed the debate early, stating that no other members were queueing to speak on the floor.
– Limited Debate: Only two lawmakers spoke during the 30-minute floor window:
1. Kendhoo MP Mauroof Zakir (MDP): Spoke against the bill, warning that it dismantles local governance.
2. Hoarafushi MP Ali Moosa (PNC): Spoke in favor, supporting the expansion of central government authority for development projects.
Omission of Final Statement: The debate was concluded without affording the sponsor, MP Hannan, the customary opportunity to deliver a closing statement.
Although MP Hannan is an independent lawmaker, critics and opposition figures have previously accused the administration of utilizing independent members to introduce government-backed measures.
The parliamentary vote comes just a day after an online e-petition was launched on the official parliament portal calling for the bill’s immediate withdrawal. Opposition parties, civil society organizations, and local community members have expressed strong concern that transferring land authority from elected councils to the Cabinet severely undermines the principles of decentralization.
