Good Governance Measured by Daily Human Experience, Says Speaker Abdul Raheem Abdulla

Speaker of the Parliament, Abdul Raheem Abdulla, has asserted that the true measure of good governance lies in the daily lived experiences of citizens rather than in the existence of laws and institutions alone. Addressing the 153rd Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in Arusha, Tanzania, the Speaker emphasized that governance must be people-centered, focusing on whether citizens feel heard and have equal access to opportunities. According to Speaker Abdulla, the role of the Maldivian Parliament extends beyond the traditional drafting of legislation. He argued that lawmakers must actively listen to the public, oversee policy implementation, and ensure the responsible use of public resources. He noted that for governance to be inclusive, it must bridge the gap between the state and its people, ensuring that every community—regardless of its location—has a voice in decisions that affect their lives. Addressing the unique geographical challenges of the Maldives, the Speaker highlighted the critical role of technology in overcoming distance. He pointed to digital platforms like eFaas as essential tools for making government services more accessible. However, he cautioned that digital governance must remain secure and transparent, adding that the Maldives is focused on increasing digital literacy and combating misinformation to ensure technology serves the public interest under democratic oversight. Trust, the Speaker noted, is the cornerstone of effective governance and is built through integrity and tangible results. He cited the Right to Information Act and the work of the Anti-Corruption Commission as vital mechanisms for ensuring accountability and transparency within state institutions. Expanding his remarks to the global stage, Speaker Abdulla linked the principles of good governance to international peace. Referencing ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Africa, he called upon parliamentarians to uphold international law and promote dialogue to protect human dignity. Concluding his address, the Speaker urged IPU members to transition toward outcome-based governance, where success is measured by results rather than promises. He reaffirmed the Maldives' commitment to collaborating with international parliaments to strengthen democracy and empower local communities.