MDP Faces Criticism Over Land Allocation Policy in Malé

MV+ News Desk | November 2, 2025
A small crowd attends the MDP rally in Malé on Friday night, calling for the distribution of promised land plots. | Photo: MV+

The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) is facing fresh criticism over its decision to grant free land plots to Malé-registered residents during the final days of former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih’s administration. The policy, introduced as Solih campaigned for a second term, has drawn accusations of political favouritism and economic inequality.

An MDP rally held on Friday night to call for the distribution of the promised plots drew a small crowd, signalling what many observers see as waning public enthusiasm.

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Social media commentary has been sharply critical, with users describing the policy as evidence of poor governance and misplaced priorities. Critics include not only opposition figures but also MDP supporters and activists, some of whom have faced backlash for defending the policy.

The land distribution took place in Hulhumalé Phase Two — one of the most expensive areas in the Maldives — where the cost of land reclamation is among the highest in the country. Critics argue that while some individuals received plots free of charge under the policy, others were required to purchase land in the same area, raising concerns about fairness.

Despite the move, the MDP suffered a decisive defeat in the 2023 presidential election, with Solih reportedly failing to secure significant support even among Malé voters. The episode has since fuelled public debate about the party’s approach to housing and urban development.

Last week, during a parliamentary session, Inguraidhoo MP and Majority Leader Ibrahim Falah of the People’s National Congress (PNC) called on the government to reclaim plots distributed under the “Binveriya” scheme, stating that the state had incurred losses of MVR 13 billion as a result. He argued that each plot could fetch around MVR 12 million if sold through open bidding, and claimed that some recipients were now willing to sell for as little as MVR 800,000.

Housing affordability remains a pressing issue in the Maldives, where limited land availability and rapid urbanisation have created a severe shortage of affordable housing. Commentators have urged the government to introduce clear legislation governing land allocation in the Malé region, arguing that such a measure is essential to prevent future administrations from repeating similar mistakes.

Analysts note that the controversy underscores broader concerns about the politicisation of housing policy and the need for long-term reform to ensure fair and sustainable access to land for all Maldivians.

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