Hon. Abdul Raheem Abdulla, MP, Speaker of the People’s Majlis, addressed the 153rd Assembly

of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) today in Arusha, Tanzania.

Speaking on the Assembly’s theme, “Enhancing good governance and empowering communities

through inclusivity, trust and opportunities for all,” the Speaker highlighted the importance of

people-centred governance, accountability, inclusivity and public trust in strengthening

democratic institutions.

The Speaker emphasised that good governance is not only about strong institutions, but also

about ensuring that people’s voices are heard, that they have equal opportunities, and that public

institutions remain accountable and responsive to their needs.

He noted that the role of parliaments extends beyond enacting legislation, stressing the

importance of listening to citizens, overseeing the implementation of policies, ensuring the

responsible use of public resources, and creating meaningful opportunities for communities to

participate in decision-making.

Speaking on inclusive governance, the Speaker highlighted the particular importance of

accessibility for island communities in the Maldives. He noted that digital platforms such as

eFaas can help bring government services closer to people and overcome geographical

challenges, while emphasising the need for digital governance to remain transparent, secure and

inclusive.

Addressing the importance of public trust, the Speaker underscored that trust is built through

transparency, accountability, integrity and results. He highlighted the role of the Right to

Information Act, citizen petitions and digital platforms in enabling public engagement, as well as

the contribution of institutions such as the Anti-Corruption Commission in strengthening

integrity and accountability.

The Speaker further emphasised that good governance is closely linked to peace and security.

Referring to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, including the situation in Palestine, and

conflicts in parts of Africa, he stressed the responsibility of parliamentarians to promote

dialogue, uphold international law, protect human dignity and support peaceful solutions.

He also called for governance and parliamentary decision-making to be effective and evidence-

based, noting that policies and legislation must ultimately be assessed by the results they deliver

for people.

Concluding his address, the Speaker stressed that the true measure of good governance lies not only in the strength of institutions, but also in what those institutions deliver in people’s daily

lives. He called on parliaments to become more open, inclusive, responsive and effective, while

strengthening public trust through transparency and accountability and empowering communities

through access to information and meaningful participation. The Speaker also reaffirmed the

Maldives’ commitment to working with fellow parliaments through the IPU to promote good

governance, strengthen democracy and empower communities.