Former MP Ali Hussain: Constitution bars housing projects that compromise sovereignty

Former Kendhoo constituency MP and lawyer Ali Hussain has stated that the Constitution of the Maldives does not allow providing housing to citizens by selling the nation's sovereignty or allowing foreign entities to loot the country. Speaking at a special forum under the theme "Maldives Land for Maldivians," he questioned how President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu came to power—asking which document gave him the office, answering that it is the "green constitution." Hussain highlighted Article 23 of the Constitution, which says the state must provide housing and facilities within its financial capacity and ability, not by selling national sovereignty or allowing exploitation. He further noted that Article 61(a) and (b) require any policy to be gazetted. Referring to the Rasmaale project, Hussain pointed out that Deputy Attorney General Ahmed Usham had said only a Letter of Intent (Commercial Terms Agreement) has been signed so far, with definitive agreements to follow after further consultations. However, Hussain argued there is no policy under which the signing took place. He questioned whether it would be constitutional to pass laws after signing over 500 hectares of land to a foreign party, urging citizens to think carefully about the process.