The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), the main opposition party, has kicked off its ‘Laamarukazee Gulhun’ conference in Kulhudhuffushi City, with plans to extend the conference to other regions across the Maldives.

The event, which began on Saturday morning, has drawn the top leadership of the MDP to Bodu Thiladhunmathi.

During the conference, MDP leaders will meet with council members from the region to discuss concerns over recent amendments to the Decentralization Act, which they allege are attempts to weaken the authority of local councils.

The leadership team is scheduled to visit several islands in HA. Atoll, HDh. Atoll, and Sh. Atoll through Tuesday.

Photos shared on the party’s official X account show the presence of key figures, including MDP chairperson Fayyaz Ismail, former Vice President Faisal Naseem, and Malé City Mayor Adam Azim, among others.

The party has also indicated that it will work on drafting a new political roadmap during this tour.

The MDP has expressed concerns over the government’s plans to introduce further amendments to the Decentralization Act, including proposals to reduce the size of local councils.

In a press briefing earlier this week, Ali Niyaz, chair of the party’s decentralization committee, emphasized the party’s commitment to supporting local councils and promoting decentralization.

He noted that the conference is an opportunity to strengthen ties with councils and address growing concerns.