Environmentalists question the consistency of policies to discourage plastic consumption.
The housing minister made 'false and defamatory' remarks, according to the council.
Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has never sought the spotlight or headlines.
One minister hoped 'honest campaigning' could now begin.
The takeover is the latest example of the government chipping away at the council's powers.
The average monthly salary for local resort workers is US$200-US$250.
The Sri Lankan was charged with being part of an assassination attempt on the Maldives president.
Debate is raging about who should be the main opposition's presidential candidate.
The 27-year-old died after colliding with a dinghy propeller.
The veteran lawmaker was appointed in a unanimous decision by 791 delegates at the MDP's congress.
Greater Malé and nearby local islands generate 774 tons of mixed solid waste daily.
A further downgrade could entail non-humanitarian and non-trade sanctions.
There were irregularities in the trials of the two top judges, said the UN rights expert.
The breakthrough came after weeks of indecision and bickering between the coalition partners.
Nasheed said he was acquiescing to concerns that MDP could be left without a candidate.
Jumhooree Party MP Ali Hussain dismissed speculation that the exiled business tycoon has made a deal with the government.
EU officials took up "the continuing deterioration of democracy in the Maldives."
