Maleeh warns Ras Malé project could compromise national security

People's National Front (PNF) Secretary General Mohamed Maleeh Jamal has warned that establishing a foreign township in Ras Malé would create significant national security challenges, urging the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) and Maldives Police Service to advise President Dr Mohamed Muizzu against proceeding with the proposed development.

Speaking at a press conference held on Sunday, Maleeh described Ras Malé as critical national infrastructure and a strategic asset, arguing that allowing foreign nationals to establish a settlement there could complicate security arrangements in Malé and the wider country.

Maleeh further argued that the country's security institutions have a responsibility to advise the President against proceeding with the project.

He also called on UAE-based developer Eagle Hills, led by Mohamed Alabbar, to withdraw from the proposed Ras Malé development, publicly apologise and disclose the agreements reached with the Maldivian government.

Maleeh said that if the company genuinely prioritised transparency, international standards and comprehensive due diligence, proceeding with the project in its current form would not be appropriate.

He also questioned the potential strategic implications of infrastructure that could be developed under the project, alleging that Eagle Hills would establish an airport and seaport in Ras Malé.

According to Maleeh, the development of such facilities could shift maritime and international air traffic away from existing facilities in Malé.

He claimed that vessels operated by Dubai-based DP World could dock at a new port in Ras Malé instead of Malé Port, while major international airlines, including Emirates and Etihad, could divert their flights to a new airport in the development.

Maleeh warned that such a development could place vital national infrastructure under foreign influence, accusing President Muizzu and his associates of seeking to transfer strategic national assets before the end of the current administration.

The remarks come amid growing opposition to the government's proposed Ras Malé development with Eagle Hills, which has become a major political issue, with opposition parties and other groups calling for greater public consultation and a referendum on the project.

The Gaumee Harakaaiy (National Movement) movement held a major rally at Artificial Beach in Malé on November 13 under the slogan "Dhivehinge Bin Dhivehinnah" (Maldivian Land for Maldivians).

The demonstration brought together figures from the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), the PNF and other political groups, with participants calling for the proposed land deal to be halted or submitted to a public referendum.