South Galolhu MP Meekail Ahmed has publicly accused the current government, led by President Mohamed Muizzu, of misappropriating land in Malé City. This accusation specifically targets Housing Minister Ali Haidar, alleging alterations in the terms of land allocation initially set by the previous administration under President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.
Meekail ‘s criticism emerged during a parliamentary debate on the upcoming year’s budget. He claimed the new government is attempting to ‘rob’ Malé residents of their rightfully allocated land, suggesting a significant departure from the promises made during President Muizzu’s election campaign. His primary concern lies in the potential changes to the size and location of land plots, a move he equates to looting the housing rights of the city’s inhabitants.
On the other hand, Minister Ali Haidar on Monday confirmed the continuation of the land plots allocation under the Binveriya Project initiated by the Solih administration but raised concerns over their legal and practical feasibility.
Haidar pointed out issues with some land areas still being lagoons, pending reclamation, and the lack of comprehensive planning in the original allocation process. These factors, according to Haidar, necessitate a possible change in the location of some land plots while maintaining their size.
The minister’s response also highlighted the new administration’s commitment to upholding the allocations, but with a strategic plan that aligns with legal requirements and urban planning principles. This commitment includes reviewing allocations made under the Gedhoruveriya scheme, currently halted by an order from the Anti Corruption Commission.
The dispute underscores a significant challenge in urban development and land management in the Maldives, reflecting the complexities of governance transition and policy continuity.
The debate has broader implications for public trust in government policies, especially in areas of critical resource allocation like land, the need for transparent dialogue and policy-making that balances legal, practical, and ethical considerations.
