Rival Political Entities Opposing Malé Reclamation to Block Muizzu's 2028 Election Success, Says Mahloof

Maldives Ambassador to Japan Ahmed Mahloof has stated that rival political entities are opposing the Malé Reclamation project with the intention of obstructing it, fearing that the project could pave the way for President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu to win the presidential election in 2028. In a post on the social media platform X, Mahloof noted that opposition entities initially claimed the project was a useless sandbank, that no one would live there, and that it was a wasteful expense, but said the tone of these statements has completely changed today. Mahloof highlighted that the project is a major investment worth $20 billion, which will create 50,000 jobs, establish 5,000 flats, and provide work worth several billion rufiyaa to the Maldivian construction sector. He added that with opportunities for Maldivians to invest and conduct business, billions of dollars in revenue will enter the state treasury, providing significant relief to the dollar issue. Addressing various rumors, Mahloof stated that there is a strong decision preventing Israeli citizens from traveling to the country, that no land or business can be acquired by Jews in Malé, and that neither coconuts nor fruits will be sold there, nor will any casino be built. He said the project has been entrusted to a large company from a capable Muslim country, and the area is being leased as property of the Maldivian state, with the country's laws and regulations applying. Mahloof urged people not to dismiss the political rhetoric spoken by politicians and to give the project a chance, insisting that the project must proceed.