Former Chairperson of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), Fayyaz Ismail, has warned that an MDP administration would revoke the agreement for the Ras Malé development if the project proceeds with UAE-based developer Eagle Hills without public consultation or consent.
Former Chairperson of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), Fayyaz Ismail, has warned that an MDP administration would revoke the agreement for the Ras Malé development if the project proceeds with UAE-based developer Eagle Hills without public consultation or consent.
Speaking on Adhadhu's programme 'Fennanufenna', Fayyaz criticised the government's approach to the proposed development, insisting that the public must be given an opportunity to discuss the project and raise concerns before any further steps are taken.
President Muizzu must consult the Maldivian people and ascertain their preferences. An opportunity for debate must be provided so that those with concerns can voice them. Until these steps are taken, there should be no constitutional amendments or progression with this project. I am stating very clearly that if this proceeds without public consent, we will revoke the agreement upon the formation of an MDP government.
Fayyaz stressed that his objections were not directed at foreign investment or the UAE, but rather at the terms of the proposed arrangement, particularly the allocation of Maldivian land to a foreign company on a permanent basis without an acquisition cost.
He also raised concerns over the potential implications of the project's ownership and residency arrangements, warning that they could eventually allow a significant number of foreign nationals to establish long-term rights in the Maldives.
As they gradually settle here, they will establish rights over that land. When a large number of people from major global powers become residents, it becomes very easy to exert pressure on a small nation like ours. They will eventually demand their rights and insist on the freedom to practice their religions here
Fayyaz maintained that these concerns made public consultation essential before the government proceeded with the development.
He also said that Eagle Hills would be formally notified of the opposition's position, warning the company against entering into an agreement with an administration that has only two years remaining in its term.
We will also formally notify Eagle Hills. If they engage in this project with a government that lacks public legitimacy during its remaining two years, they should understand the public's stance. In fact, there will be no grounds for compensation if the agreement is revoked
Fayyaz's remarks come amid growing disagreements within the MDP over how the party should respond to the government's agreement with Eagle Hills.
More than 60 members of the party's National Council have called for an emergency meeting to determine the MDP's official position and possible course of action regarding the project on Sunday.
MDP Chairperson and former President Mohamed Nasheed has advised members against actively opposing the project, arguing that the party should maintain the position outlined in its earlier statement.
Nasheed has said he supports the development in principle, although he has previously expressed reservations about its location in the Greater Malé region.
He has also cautioned that openly confronting Eagle Hills Chairman Mohamed Alabbar could damage the party's relationship with the UAE.
However, several National Council members have called for a stronger response, arguing that the party should not accept the project without greater scrutiny.
Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has also questioned the terms of the agreement, while Fayyaz and former MDP President Abdulla Shahid have supported holding a formal meeting to determine the party's position.
In its earlier statement, the MDP said it welcomed foreign investment but raised concerns over inconsistencies in the information disclosed by the government and Eagle Hills.
The party called for the full agreement to be made public, including details of its duration, financial obligations, concessions and the developer's commitments.
It also questioned whether the arrangement could allow foreign ownership of Maldivian land and called for public consultation, including a possible referendum.
President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, meanwhile, has defended the Ras Malé development, maintaining that it will be implemented within the country's legal framework and will not compromise national sovereignty, independence or Islamic values.
Speaking on PSM's 'Nation Chat' programme on October 28, Muizzu said there was nothing untoward in the arrangement and confirmed that the agreement with Eagle Hills would be submitted to Parliament for consideration by the relevant committee.
He also said the government would introduce legislation to establish a special legal framework for real estate tourism.
The President has further maintained that the project would provide significant economic benefits, create employment opportunities and address housing needs.
He has said that properties developed under the project would remain subject to Maldivian law and that the State would retain control over property transactions.
He has also assured that measures would be taken to protect the country's Islamic identity and prevent Israeli nationals from acquiring property in Ras Malé.
The government signed the Commercial Terms Agreement with Eagle Hills on September 21 for the development of approximately 500 hectares of reclaimed land at Fushidhiggaru Falhu.
Leave a comment
Comments
No comments yet. Be the first to comment!
