MDP launches manifesto for Malé council elections

The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) on Sunday launched its manifesto for the upcoming local council elections.

The document, titled Faithful Service, The Pulse of Malé City, sets out the party’s plans for governance and development in Malé.

The launch event was held at Artificial Beach and was attended by party leaders and candidates contesting in the council elections. A video presentation outlining the main points of the manifesto was shown during the event.

According to the party, the manifesto focuses on addressing issues faced by residents and improving services in the city.

The document is organised around three main pillars: Dignified Living, Thriving Business and Empowered Citizens.

The first section focuses on urban services and infrastructure.

The manifesto proposes bringing Hulhumalé, Gulhifalhu, Giraavarufalhu and Uthuru Thila Falhu under the jurisdiction of Malé City. The plan also includes accelerating the handover of land plots in these areas after providing utilities and infrastructure.

The party also proposes establishing a housing fund to support construction of homes. Other measures include redevelopment of Sinamalé flats and simplifying procedures for renewing older buildings.

To address traffic congestion, the manifesto proposes changes to roads and the creation of parking facilities in neighbourhoods. Plans also include expanding Boduthakurufaanu Magu, modifying narrow streets and improving pedestrian walkways. The party also proposes regulating the number of vehicles.

On waste management, the party proposes changes to the collection system, including the use of vehicles designed for narrow streets and the establishment of a market for reusable items.

The manifesto also proposes sports centres, facilities for e-sports, study hubs for students and childcare services. Additional measures include providing venues for wedding ceremonies and establishing nursing homes for elderly residents.

Parks, public spaces and beaches would also be upgraded with facilities and Wi-Fi access.

The second pillar focuses on economic activity and urban management.

The manifesto proposes relocating the Malé Commercial Harbour to Thilafushi. According to the plan, the harbour area would be redeveloped as a public space.

The party also proposes relocating chemical storage facilities located in residential areas.

Plans for arts and culture include the development of a theatre, exhibition halls and spaces for music and arts training.

To support business activity, the manifesto proposes establishing hubs for small and medium enterprises and startups, organising business events and providing support programmes for youth and women entrepreneurs. The plan also includes upgrading markets and creating vendor stalls.

Under the tourism component, Vilimalé would be promoted as a local tourism destination. The Malé local market would also be upgraded to promote Maldivian products and provide facilities for visitors arriving by yacht and cruise ships.

Environmental initiatives include a residential solar energy programme and urban gardening projects. The plan also proposes installing an air quality monitoring system.

The third pillar focuses on governance and public participation.

The party proposes holding regular town hall meetings to involve residents in decision-making and consulting the public during budget preparation. Information on financial transactions and land allocation would be made public.

Administrative measures include establishing a policy think tank and a unit to assist residents in accessing government services. The manifesto also proposes expanding the city’s CCTV system.

The document also states that the council will support the work of Women’s Development Committees by providing training and expanding their role within council programmes.