CALL FOR INVESTIGATION INTO GOVERNANCE BREACHES IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF MAHDIA

Mahdia Town, Region 8, I, Daniel Fraser, Municipal Councillor of the Municipality of Mahdia, today submitted a formal report to the Local Government Commission and the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, outlining serious breaches of statutory procedures and financial mismanagement within the Municipality of Mahdia.

Over the period November 2024 to December 2025, the Municipality operated without convening statutory Council or Committee meetings as mandated by the Municipal and District Councils Act, Cap. 28:01 and the Local Democratic Organs Act, Cap. 28:09. During this same period, in excess of $45,000,000 GYD comprising Council revenues and central government subventions was expended in the absence of Finance Committee oversight, in direct contravention of the Fiscal Transfers Act, No. 16 of 2013.

Further, key administrative actions were taken without Council’s approval. These include the appointment of an Acting Town Clerk and the addition of that officer’s signature to the Council’s bank account. Municipal revenues from sand sales, garbage collection, building applications, and event permits, continue to be collected and disbursed without the knowledge or approval of the Council. Additionally, buildings are being erected and renovated without the required recommendation of the Environmental Health Officer or approval of the Council, contrary to the Public Health Ordinance, Cap. 145.

With a Council of 8 members and a quorum requirement of 5, the absence of APNU Councillors, who represent 50% of the electorate, meant that no lawful decisions could have been taken during this period. Yet, business continued as usual in the absence of elected officials.

“The people of Mahdia deserve a Council that operates with transparency, accountability, and respect for the law. The continued disregard for statutory procedures undermines local democracy and erodes public trust,” Daniel Fraser stated. 

In accordance with the Local Government Commission Act, No. 18 of 2013, Daniel Fraser requested an immediate investigation into these matters and an independent audit of all municipal accounts for FY 2024 and FY 2025. He also called on the Ministry to ensure that statutory meetings resume without delay and that all future expenditures are subjected to proper Council and Committee scrutiny.

The residents and workers of Mahdia have expressed growing frustration with the current state of administration. It is time to restore lawful governance in our Municipality.