The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has strongly condemned the removal of Savaahili island from the jurisdiction of Addu City Council, at a time when the council had put the island out to tender for the development of an entertainment and recreation facility.

In a statement issued today, the MDP said that under the Decentralization Act, the power granted to the President to determine the jurisdictions of islands and cities is to be exercised in consultation with the residents of that island or city. However, the party described the removal of Savaahili — carried out without any consultation with the Addu City Council or its residents — as a “disgraceful act” committed by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, contrary to the purpose of the law, in order to obstruct Addu’s development.

The statement also noted that making such a decision at a time when the Addu City Council is in the process of formulating its five-year development plan constitutes an encroachment on the powers granted to councils by law. The MDP further stated that the authority given to the President to alter the jurisdiction of an island or city “is not a power that can be used arbitrarily.”

The Addu City Council had put Savaahili out to tender for development over a 50-year term. Under the project, plans were in place to develop a beach area, water sports, marine recreation, a swimming pool, indoor and outdoor sports facilities, as well as food and beverage outlets.

Noting that the government’s decision is clearly at odds with the wishes of the people of Addu, the MDP called on the government to fully respect the Decentralization Act and to not stand as an obstacle to the development the people want.