MP Maaroof accuses government of selling off land without tax to hide tax hikes on small businesses

Kendhoo constituency MP Maaroof Zakir has accused the government of selling large portions of Maldivian land to foreign parties without collecting any tax, alleging the move is intended to hide the increased taxes being imposed on small businesses. Speaking at Monday's sitting of the People's Majlis, MP Maaroof said the current policies and their outcomes show the government's inconsistent stance. He noted that none of the amendments to tax-related laws brought by the 20th People's Majlis, apparently at the government's behest, have benefited the state or the public. The MP criticised the tax system, stating that large settlements are being brought into the country under the guise of major investments, yet the government receives no tax revenue from them, which he described as a major concern for the nation's economy. MP Maaroof further alleged that the government is selling a large portion of Maldivian land to foreign parties without any tax, in order to distract from the increased tax burden on small businesses. He said this is not a balanced policy and will affect the country's sovereignty. Regarding the 'Rasmale' development project, Maaroof called for a public referendum before bringing in the Eagle Hills company to execute the project, emphasising that major decisions of the nation should be made with the input of the people.