High Court Rules Appeal in Stelco Generator Case Can Proceed

The High Court of the Maldives has ruled that an appeal can proceed in a lawsuit filed by five residents of H. Fehihiri in Male' against state-owned Stelco. The residents claim that the generators operated by Stelco produce harmful black smoke, excessive noise, and vibrations, violating their fundamental right to live in a safe and healthy environment. The Civil Court had previously dismissed the case, ruling that the residents did not have the right to claim damages. Stelco then challenged the High Court's decision to hear the appeal. However, the High Court bench rejected Stelco's request, stating unanimously that there is no reason to invalidate the appeal. The case now proceeds. This development follows a promise made by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu when he was Mayor of Male' to relocate the affected families, a promise that remains unfulfilled.