Imran Demands Bandara Naib Usham Resign Over Rasmalé Land Deals, Vows to File Case

Former Home Minister Sheikh Imran Abdulla, who leads the national movement, has called for Bandara Naib Usham to resign from his post before President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, alleging corruption and secret dealings in the allocation of land under the Rasmalé project. He also warned that a case will be filed against Usham for the improper use of state lands and for betraying the nation. Speaking at a protest held on Wednesday night, Imran strongly criticised the Rasmalé project that the government is working to carry out. Imran said that Usham was also present at a meeting held with senior government officials and the military regarding the giving of 500 hectares of land—described by Imran as the most valuable treasury of the Maldivian people—to a Zionist. According to Imran, at that meeting a person who loves the country requested that 500 million dollars, or if that amount could not be given, 250 million dollars, be deposited into the bank to resolve the dollar shortage. He said that even while those voices were being heard, Usham remained without saying anything at all, and that the failure of a person who is there to protect the state and the law to pay attention in such matters is a reason for resignation. In addition, Imran said that among the things said in connection with these dealings, many secret transactions have taken place. "Usham must resign. He can listen, but he cannot lie. He cannot lie. Once again, this government of liars that I just mentioned must make another big lie," Imran said. Speaking further, Imran said that the country's laws are not being enforced and that the country's rights are being sold and betrayed. He said a case will be filed against Bandara Naib Usham and that parties who have betrayed the country, religion and the homeland will be brought before justice. Imran has also called on all the people who are against the Rasmalé project to stand up.