Ministry Seeks Management of Pet Care Facility from Male’ City Council

The Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Welfare has requested Male’ City Council to transfer the management of the newly opened Pet Care Facility to the ministry, citing concerns about its current operation.

The centre, inaugurated last month by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, has faced scrutiny from the ministry over what it described as “shortcomings.” In a statement issued on Tuesday, the ministry advised postponing the relocation of stray cats to the facility until the issues are resolved.

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Male’ Mayor Adam Azim, a member of the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), confirmed that the council received a letter from the ministry on Tuesday evening. The letter conveyed a cabinet decision to transfer the facility to the ministry’s authority.

Azim added that the council would address the matter in its upcoming meeting. “We will discuss this and make a decision during tomorrow’s meeting. It will be included in the agenda,” he stated.

Responding to the ministry’s concerns, Azim noted that significant progress had been made in addressing the identified issues. “Veterinarians have been appointed, and most necessary facilities are operational. Only minor matters remain unresolved,” he said.

While the ministry’s statement did not explicitly request a transfer, it highlighted concerns about the adequacy of animal care at the centre and recommended delaying the relocation of stray cats until these matters are fully addressed.

The council, currently led by the MDP-affiliated mayor, includes a majority from the ruling Progressive National Congress (PNC). A final decision on the ministry’s request is anticipated after the council’s deliberations.