Incumbent Male’ City Mayor Adam Azim, a member of the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), acknowledged today that the government has been fully cooperative with the City Council, meeting all their requests.

He disclosed that 15 consultants had been appointed at the council’s request, with 14 of them being MDP members.

Speaking at the MDP's ‘Laamarukazee Gulhun’ councillor conference in Kulhudhuffushi City, 

The Mayor emphasized that maintaining strong relations with ministries has enabled the City Council to better serve the people of Male’.

Azim was elected as Mayor of Male’ City in January this year, defeating Azima Shakura.

He has previously stated that despite being elected on the MDP ticket, he has no difficulty working with the government and has been receiving support from government ministers.

Despite claims from MDP that the party is being sidelined from government institutions, Azim confirmed that 14 MDP members are currently serving as consultants within the City Council.

The conference which kick started today, MDP leaders are set to meet with council members to discuss concerns over recent amendments to the Decentralization Act, which they allege are attempts to weaken the authority of local councils.