Azim: I will not be an obstruction to something which benefits the people

Newly sworn-in Male’ Mayor Adam Azim has affirmed he will not become an obstruction to something which benefits the people.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the new Male’ Mayor and three councilors – Azim, who is a member of opposition MDP, assured he would cooperate in all matters that would benefit the people.

“As Male’ City Mayor, I want to work by cooperating with the government and all government authorities to the best extent,” he said.

At Monday night’s ceremony, Azim appealed to the president to resolve the housing crisis faced Male’ residents, specifically urging to develop the locations the previous administration had allocated land from, and the handover of the plots.

He remarked that Male’ residents wished for a way for districts linked via bridge.

“They wish for the implementation of MDP’s housing policy with respect to Hulhuamle’ Phase III, Gulhifalhu, Giraavarufalhu and Uthuruthila Falhu. To begin a life, with housing, at these locations that will be linked via bridge,” he said.

Azim said the housing crisis has led to many being subjected to criminal surroundings. He added that this can only be resolved by developing these locations and issuing land to individuals.

Azim also commended President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s vision to further develop the decentralized system introduced by MDP - inferred from the president’s speeches - and expressed delight over the commitment he has provided to the people in this trajectory.  

Supreme Court Justice Mahaz Ali Zahir administered the oath to Azim and three newly elected councilors for vacant seats in Male’ City Council.

The position of Male’ City mayor became vacant after President Muizzu resigned to take office as the Maldivian president in November 2023.

The three newly elected councilors are Hassan Nazim for South Maafannu constituency, Aminath Rishfa Ahmed for South Henveiru constituency and Ahmed Rishwan Rasheed for Central Henveiru constituency.

Nazim and Rishfa were elected on PNC’s ticket. Rishwan, who was elected on MDP’s elect, signed to PNC on Monday.

Male’ City Council comprises of 19 councilors. With Rishwan’s shift in party, the council has 13 members representing the ruling PPM-PNC coalition.