Addu districts vote on separate councils with millions at stake

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has confirmed that if residents vote to restructure Addu City Council into separate councils for Hulhudhoo, Meedhoo, and Feydhoo, each newly formed council will receive its own government block grant. Speaking at a public gathering in Fonadhoo, the President explained that Saturday's referendum fulfills an election pledge to address the long-standing request from these three districts for independent local governance. He emphasized the government remains neutral and will honor whatever decision the people make. Should separate councils be established, they would gain full administrative powers and independent budgets. Based on current allocation formulas, President Muizzu outlined the potential annual grants: approximately 25 million Rufiyaa for Feydhoo Council, 13 to 14 million for Hulhudhoo Council, and around 18 million for Meedhoo Council. The Election Commission will conduct the public vote this Saturday, allowing residents of these three districts to determine their governance future. — Source fragments: