Majlis Rejects Resolution on Government Land Reclaim Without Debate

The People’s Majlis has dismissed an opposition resolution condemning the central government’s reclaiming 14 key land parcels from the Malé City Council’s jurisdiction, rejecting the measure at the preliminary stage without allowing a floor debate.

The resolution, sponsored by opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) lawmaker Meekail Ahmed Naseem representing South Galolhu, was rejected by 52 votes to 11.

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The prompt dismissal without parliamentary debate was enabled under a recent procedural amendment introduced last month by the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC). 

Under the revised Majlis standing orders, floor debate on a resolution is contingent upon a preliminary approval vote; previously, motions were debated prior to a decisive house vote.

The repossessed assets encompass some of the capital’s primary public hubs and economic locations, including the Malé Fish Market, Sultan Park, the Carnival area, Artificial Beach, and the Rasfannu beach pavilion.

In the resolution, Meekail argued that the administration proceeded without consulting the municipal council or disclosing developmental blueprints beyond project titles. The motion warned that removing these revenue-generating and community assets directly hampers municipal budgeting, disrupts municipal public services, and undermines the Decentralization Act by bypassing statutory intergovernmental procedures.

“At a time when the council is formulating vital plans and development projects that would immensely benefit the public, making such a decision could cause substantial harm to the council and the citizens of Malé,” the motion read.

The parliamentary defeat follows separate legal action initiated by the Malé City Council, which has sought an interim court injunction to halt the government takeover of the municipal properties.