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CEP template 2012

C ommo nwe a l t h memb e r c o u n t r i e s Local government Ministry: Home Affairs The islands are divided into 20 administrative units, known as atolls. Each has been given a letter in the Maldivian alphabet as well as its geographical name. Huvadhu Atoll, for example, is divided into two administrative units: Gaaf Alif and Gaaf Dhaal. Atolls are headed by atoll chiefs appointed by the President. Local government is provided for by the Decentralisation Act 2010 and the Local Council Election Act 2010, and it is enshrined in the constitution (Chapter VIII). The Local Government Authority Department of the Ministry of Home Affairs is responsible for local government, which comprises 20 atoll councils, 66 island councils and two city councils (Malé and Addu). Local government is in two tiers with the atoll councils in the first tier, and the island and city councils in the second. Local elections are held every three years. The local authorities have revenue-raising powers, charging fees or rent for services provided, as well as receiving transfers from national government. They are also empowered to raise finance to fund development projects. Atoll councils are responsible for managing projects in the Atoll Development Plan not assigned to an island council. The island and city councils are responsible for primary health care, preschool education, adult education, utilities, waste disposal, pest control and roads. Further information President’s Office: www.presidencymaldives.gov.mv Commonwealth Secretariat: www.thecommonwealth.org Commonwealth Governance: www.commonwealthgovernance.org Commonwealth Governance Handbook 2014/15 198


CEP template 2012
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