President Muizzu Says No Schools in Rasmale's Eagle Hills Area, No Other Religions Allowed

President Mohamed Muizzu has stated that schools will not be built in the area of Rasmale designated for the Eagle Hills development, reversing earlier assurances. Speaking on the programme 'The Pulses' broadcast by the President's Office, Muizzu said there would be no room for other religions in that zone, and no schools would be constructed there. "The areas being developed in Rasmale – apart from the ones we are building – those who buy the properties or tourists who visit will come and go. There will be no opportunity for any kind of religious activities of those parties," the President said. Muizzu also confirmed that a Maldivian police station and mosques would be established within the area. He accused certain individuals of spreading false rumours that there would be no mosques, describing such claims as an attempt to create fear and portray the area as foreign territory. The President's remarks contradict an earlier joint press release by the Housing Ministry and Eagle Hills, which stated that the development would include schools, international-standard hotels and resorts, high-quality branded residences, a world-class marina, waterfront walkways, restaurants, shops, and entertainment and health centres. The government previously said it expects $20 billion in investment from Eagle Hills, but the company has stated it will invest $12 billion. Muizzu later clarified that the $20 billion figure reflects the estimated value of the project upon completion. The Rasmale land is being leased for 99 years, a move that has sparked political and religious controversy. The government is currently working to finalise a permanent agreement, with a signing expected on November 11. The Rasmale land reclamation project began on December 17, 2023, with an initial promise that reclamation would be completed within eight months. However, over 1,000 days have passed and the project remains unfinished.