MP Shakir Questions Lack of Transparency in Rasmale Deal; Resolution for Disclosure Rejected

Maavah constituency MP Ahmed Shakir on Monday expressed concern over the lack of clarity on what the Maldives stands to gain from the Rasmale development deal with UAE-based Eagle Hills. Speaking in Parliament, Shakir said it was unclear what benefits the agreement would bring to the state and the nation at a time of economic hardship, and called for the government to disclose details including performance guarantees. His remarks came on the same day a resolution submitted by Galolhu Dhekunu MP Mikail Ahmed Naseem, demanding full disclosure of the terms of the commercial agreement with Eagle Hills, was voted down by the ruling PNC supermajority. The government has stated that the Rasmale project will be leased to Eagle Hills for 99 years. Eagle Hills has said it will invest $12 billion in the project, while the government has claimed $20 billion—a figure it later said represents the expected value upon completion. The government is also working to pass legislation to facilitate the project, with the signing of a permanent agreement scheduled for November 11.