PNC MPs Call for Abolition of Malé City Council During Land Transport Bill Debate

Ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) MPs have called for the abolition of the Malé City Council, arguing that the central government is already carrying out most of the functions associated with the council.

Speaking during the parliamentary debate on the proposed Land Transport Bill, Vilimalé MP Mohamed Ismail said there was no need for a separate city council in the capital. He argued that although Malé City Council receives around MVR 170 million annually from vehicle-related fees, many services within the city are carried out by the central government.

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Mohamed Ismail said roads and harbours in Malé are repaired by the central government when damaged, and questioned the need for the council if it does not provide corresponding services. He also criticised the council’s spending, alleging that it had created positions such as advisers and recruited individuals to serve political interests.

The Land Transport Bill, which was passed by Parliament in today’s sitting with 47 votes in favour and 12 against, transfers certain powers currently exercised by city councils to the relevant ministry and other authorities. The changes include transferring revenue currently received by councils to the central government, determining the maximum number of vehicles permitted to operate in cities and islands, and setting a maximum usable age of 20 years for vehicles.

The law also provides for the establishment of the Greater Malé Transport and Mobility Office to oversee transport and mobility matters in the Malé region. Chapter Eight, which deals with the office and related arrangements, will remain in force for three years. The law also provides for the establishment of several committees.

Supporting Mohamed Ismail’s position, Central Mahchangolhi MP Ahmed Xamyr, a former Malé City Council member, said the previous council had failed to deliver despite the political majority held by the PNC in both Parliament and the council.

Zameer also alleged that the former government led by the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) obstructed the work of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu when he served as Mayor of Malé.

Opposing the bill, MDP South Hulhumalé MP Dr Ahmed Shamheed argued that the proposed amendments were intended to take revenue currently received by the Malé City Council and transfer it to the central government.

Shamheed also questioned the three-year duration proposed for Chapter Eight, suggesting that PNC MPs may believe the current government will not remain in office beyond that period.

He further called for restrictions on the import of non-electric vehicles into the Maldives, arguing that such a provision should have been included in the legislation.