Yameen urges independent candidacy for local council elections

Former President Abdulla Yameen has urged candidates in the upcoming local council elections to contest as independents rather than representing political parties.

Speaking at a PNF rally on Sunday, Yameen expressed concern over proposed amendments to the Decentralisation Act, which he said would limit the powers of local councils.

He stated that contesting as a member of either the ruling PNC or the opposition MDP would tie candidates to political ideologies, which could hinder their ability to serve their communities.

“If sincere people are running for councils, they should run independently. Think about what development each person can bring to the island by running independently,” Yameen said.

He added that councillors aligned with the PNC would face restrictions on pursuing development, while those representing the MDP would be constrained by political tensions with the government.

Yameen noted that past experiences under both administrations had not delivered the expected development. He said independent councillors would be better positioned to work directly with the government on behalf of their communities and avoid political risks to their positions.