Umar: Development can’t be achieved under a system where party conflicts extend to governance

Former Home Minister Umar Naseer stated on Thursday that the Maldives cannot achieve development under a system where political party conflicts extend into governance and hinder national progress.

Speaking on SSTV’s ‘Baaru Hathareh’ program, Umar argued that the decentralization framework should not be designed in a manner that enables local councils to take state-owned enterprises to court.

"Opinions can differ and can be expressed, but it should not be escalated to that level," Umar said, referring to the recent case in which the Kulhudhuffushi City Council filed a case against Fenaka Corporation over the failure to establish a service agreement for electricity provision.

Umar stressed that the Maldivian state cannot function as 180 separate entities and stated that the existing decentralization system requires comprehensive reform.

He noted that councils currently led by the MDP are the most vocal in criticizing the government, but claimed they would not take similar positions if the MDP were in power. He added that the PNC behaves in the same manner, describing the situation as a consequence of political party disputes.

"Therefore, a system that allows political party disputes to infiltrate the state's administrative framework—causing delays, creating obstacles, and allowing parties to sue one another—is a drama that provides no path for the progress of the Maldives," Umar stated.

Umar further argued that holding the government accountable is not the responsibility of local councils. He said councils are administrative bodies operating at the island level and should not issue statements against the government or initiate legal action against it.

He also stated that the central government should retain authority over decisions regarding the use of land in islands when required. He clarified that the government is not "seizing" land, but rather introducing positive changes in land management.

"If 180 councils are going to challenge the government elected by the whole nation by issuing statements and going to court, the Maldives will never see a future of development," Umar concluded.