Former MP Bonda claims Rasmale project is a secret sale of the country, says Maldives will receive no income

Former Member Ibrahim Rashid (Bonda) of the Maafannu Mid District constituency of the People's Majlis has voiced strong opposition to the Rasmale project, alleging that it constitutes a secret sale of the country to the Maldivian people. Speaking on Raajje TV's 'Land of Maldivians to Maldivians' program, Bonda argued that business requires mutual agreement between two parties and that the transaction in Rasmale cannot be termed a business. He expressed concern that despite a billion dollars being invested using public funds, there is no visible benefit or return, and he claimed the Maldives will receive no income from the project. Bonda further alleged that political entities and media are being influenced or bought to advance the project, citing examples of reports being made as desired from places like Dubai. He warned that selling sovereignty occurs in places where very lonely people go, stating that the Maldives is not such a place.