ACC Launches Probe into RasMale’ Project Amid Corruption Allegations

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has initiated an investigation into allegations surrounding the development of the eco-city “RasMale'” project, which involves the reclamation of land from Fushidhiggaru Falhu.

Former President Abdulla Yameen recently criticised the Commission for what he perceives as delays in investigating the matter. He emphasised the necessity of utilising state funds for the RasMale’ project and suggested that the current procedures employed by the government indicate potential corruption.

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In response, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu reiterated his administration’s commitment to transparency and accountability, affirming that any allegations of corruption will be addressed promptly.

The state had initially allocated MVR 400 million for the RasMale’ land reclamation project in the annual budget. However, the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), which holds a parliamentary majority, excluded this allocation from the budget, redirecting the funds towards other development projects.

President Muizzu has defended the RasMale’ project as essential for providing housing opportunities to residents of the Male’ region. He emphasised the urgency of the project, citing the need to address housing shortages within the next five years.

The MDP has raised concerns about the allocation of land for the RasMale’ project, alleging that valuable land in the Male’ region was transferred to a contracted company for reclamation work, resulting in significant financial losses to the state. The party estimates these losses to be between MVR 70 billion to MVR 100 billion, describing the situation as a potential act of corruption.

The investigation by the ACC signifies a significant development in the ongoing debate surrounding the RasMale’ project, with stakeholders from both the government and opposition expressing divergent views on its implementation and financial implications.