LGA Directs Thinadhoo Council to Halt Residency Fee

The Local Government Authority (LGA) has directed the Thinadhoo council to cease the imposition of a MVR 5,000 fee on individuals abdicating residency. 

In a letter sent to the Thinadhoo council yesterday, the LGA emphasised that such charges cannot be levied without completing the requisite procedural steps.

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The Council had decided to implement a MVR 5,000 administrative fee for residents abdicating their residency from the island, effective from the 7th of this month. The rationale behind the decision was to mitigate potential adverse effects on the island’s population due to the movement of individuals to other islands.

In response, the LGA conveyed to the Thinadhoo council that, according to Article 41 of the Constitution, every citizen of Maldives possesses the right to settle in any island and migrate from one island to another. Any restriction on this right can only be imposed through legislation passed by Parliament, ensuring consistency with the Constitution.

Should any fee be applied for eviction and resettlement, it must be undertaken in consultation with the affected citizens and in adherence to gazetted procedures. The LGA underscored that if the fee is imposed in violation of these regulations, it will be promptly halted.

Additionally, the LGA urged the council to engage with residents on the matter of fee imposition, insisting on the submission of a copy of the rules, minutes of meetings held with residents, and minutes of the council meeting. This move aligns with the LGA’s commitment to transparency and inclusive decision-making processes.