‘Maldivian Land for Maldivians’ Campaign Postpones Protest Over Rasmale Project

The ‘Maldivian Land for Maldivians’ campaign, which is calling for a public vote on the Rasmale project, has postponed its planned gathering. The gathering, initially scheduled for next Friday, will now be held on the 13th of this month to allow for broader participation, including from the MDP, according to legal counsel Ali Hussain. Ali Hussain stated that under the current Constitution, any changes to the country’s territory require a yes-or-no vote from citizens, arguing that granting land to foreign entities without a referendum is unconstitutional. The campaign’s move comes amid opposition criticism of the government’s decision to partner with Dubai-based Eagle Hills on the Rasmale project, which includes a 99-year lease of over 500 hectares. Some have claimed the project could allow Israeli residents, but the government has emphasised its benefits, with President Dr Mohamed Muizzu assuring that only Maldivians and Muslims from other countries would reside in Rasmale. Meanwhile, Eagle Hills Chairman Muhammad Al Abbhar has expressed hope to sign the final agreement for the Maldives Waterfront and Marina project on Republic Day.