Faiz Ismail Questions Maldives' Future on Victory Day, Citing Land Handover to Eagle Hills

Former Economic Minister and former Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) Chairperson Faiz Ismail has said doubts have arisen about the future of the Maldivian Republic, stating that those who came to power in the name of defending the country's sovereignty and independence have weakened it. In a post on X marking Victory Day, Faiz said this year's Victory Day is being commemorated at a critical juncture. He said what is being renewed today is the remembrance of the lofty jihad undertaken by the people of Baa Atoll with courage in defence of the Maldivian five-point flag in 1988. He also prayed for Paradise for all those who sacrificed their lives for the country's independence. Faiz made the remarks as the Maldivian government has decided to hand over 500 hectares of land in Malé to a company called Eagle Hills. The decision has raised fears that foreign entities may settle in the Maldives and that their influence could become greater than that of Maldivians, prompting political figures and the general public to express concern.