Funds from atoll councils to be redirected to island councils, says President Muizzu

President Mohamed Muizzu announced on Monday that Atoll Councils will be abolished before the next local council elections, with funds allocated to them redirected to island councils within the respective atolls.

Speaking during a visit to Lh. Olhuvelifushi Island in Lhaviyani Atoll, the President said the government would propose an amendment to the Constitution to remove the Atoll Council system.

President Muizzu said the decision was aimed at strengthening service delivery at the island level. “We are reallocating the budget currently assigned to Atoll Councils to enable island councils to provide the services needed by the people,” he said.

He added that the funds would be included in the budgets of island councils and would be specifically allocated for social services. “We are directing this increased budget to ensure assistance reaches those in need, including persons with disabilities and others requiring social support,” the President said.

According to him, the revised budget framework will take effect next year, increasing the allocations for island councils. He noted that councils must ensure that the additional funds are used to improve community welfare and meet legal obligations related to social security.

“Councils are required by law to provide social security to the people. That will be ensured through this increased budget,” President Muizzu said.

The President has previously stated his intention to reduce the number of members in island councils and to abolish Atoll Councils as part of broader administrative reforms.