Nasheed announces full support for Rasmale project amid MDP opposition

Former President and Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) Chairperson Mohamed Nasheed has declared his full support for the Rasmale project, which involves the transfer of 500 hectares of land from the reclaimed Fulidhigaru Vaari area to the UAE’s Eagle Hills company. Presiding over the MDP National Majlis meeting where a motion was passed calling for a visible and invisible vote on the project, Nasheed stated that he was not initially present to participate in the debate but felt compelled to speak after his name was mentioned by some individuals. During last night’s session, Nasheed said, “I fully support this project, completely.” He also cautioned against making unproven statements linking the project to Zionists and religion, advising members to avoid speculation about future outcomes. The resolution, proposed by Mahfooz Saied, Representative of Kolamaafushi Constituency, and supported by Maruf Zaki, Member of Parliament for Kendu Constituency, noted that the commercial agreement between the Maldivian government and Eagle Hills was signed on September 21, 2026, for the “Maldives Waterfront and Marina” project in Rasmale. It states that 500 hectares of land are to be provided for 99 years without acquisition cost or rent, despite the land reclamation being funded by taxpayers. The resolution argues that this constitutes fraud against public money and that the selection of Eagle Hills was conducted outside legal procedures. Nearly all members who attended the session expressed opposition to the project, including Fayyaz Ismail and Abdulla Shahid, who are contesting for the MDP presidential ticket.