Muizzu Pledges to Bring Hulhumale Under Council’s Jurisdiction
Photo: PPM
Dr. Mohammed Muizzu, the presidential candidate from the PPM/PNC alliance, has declared his intention to transfer Hulhumale’s jurisdiction to the Male’ City Council yesterday night, in a rally held in Hulhumale Phase 1.
PPM PNC ge Riyaasy Candidate Dr. Mohamed Muizzu Hulhumale ge rayyithunnaa badhdhalu kurevvun @MMuizzu #Vote4Muizzu#DrMuizzuSembe2023#DhiveheengeRaajje#FreePresidentYameen pic.twitter.com/trUxuNnZnm
— Progressive Party of Maldives (@ProgressPartyMV) September 12, 2023advertisement
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Hulhumale has been at the center of contention between Urbanco, a government-owned company, and the Male’ City Council, which currently administers the island.
Speaking at a rally held in Hulhumale phase 1, Dr. Muizzu emphasised his commitment to making Hulhumale a community governed by the elected representatives of the people. “It is essential that the voices and concerns of the residents are heard. A company’s primary objective is business, whereas elected councilors can ensure that municipal and rural services are tailored to the needs of the community,” stated Dr. Muizzu.
He expressed his confidence in winning the upcoming election and outlined his plans to reform Hulhumale’s governance under the PNC government, with a focus on upholding the rule of law and serving the residents of both phases of Hulhumale’.
The Male’ City Council has consistently argued that Hulhumale falls within its jurisdiction, asserting that councilors were elected by the residents of Hulhumale and, therefore, should be responsible for its administration.
Conversely, Urbanco has contended that Hulhumale is under its purview, being a wholly government-owned entity established for the purpose of overseeing the island’s development.
This dispute escalated in 2021 when the Male’ City Council canceled the island’s registry. The situation further deteriorated when the opposition PPM attempted to hold an unauthorised rally in Hulhumale’, prompting Urbanco to intervene with the assistance of the police.
Subsequently, Urbanco pursued legal action, resulting in Hulhumale coming under its jurisdiction.
The decision to transfer Hulhumale’s control to the Male’ City Council, if realized, could have far-reaching implications for the island’s residents and governance structure. It remains to be seen how this issue will evolve in the lead-up to the election and its potential impact on the future of Hulhumale.
