PNC PG Leader Falhu says Rasmalé deal does not require a referendum

Ibrahim Falhu, the Parliamentary Group (PG) Leader of the ruling People's National Congress (PNC), has stated that he does not believe a referendum is necessary regarding the Rasmalé deal, in which a portion of the land reclaimed for housing is being given to the UAE-based Eagle Hills company, which is affiliated with Israel. Speaking to the newspaper 'Adhadhu', Falhu said the opinion of the members of parliament reflects that of the general public and that there is public support for the deal. He added that if a public vote were needed, the government would proceed with one. The comments come as cabinet ministers and PNC parliamentarians are meeting with President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu at the President's Official Residence, Muliaage, in a meeting understood to be about the Rasmalé deal. The government has stated that the land is being given on a 99-year lease, but Eagle Hills has indicated a new 99-year lease would begin if the land is sold before the initial lease expires. The commercial terms for the sale of 500 hectares of the state-funded reclaimed Rasmalé to Eagle Hills were signed on September 21, with efforts underway to sign a final agreement on November 11, the Republic Day of Maldives.