MP Ahmed Thoriq Criticises Land Allocation by Previous Gov’t

The MP for Mahibadhoo constituency, Ahmed Thoriq, accused the former Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) government of unjustly allocating land plots in Hulhumale’, Gulhi Falhu, and Giravaru Falhu. 

In a parliamentary session today, Thoriq claimed that the lands were distributed in a manner detrimental to the State, particularly in the lead-up to the presidential elections.

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Thoriq asserted that the MDP administration issued land plots from the sea in a bid to gain electoral favour and suggested that their complaints about delays in land distribution are hypocritical. He pointed out that despite the land giveaways, the MDP received a minimal number of votes in the presidential election, indicating that even residents of Male’ did not perceive the allocations as fair.

He further criticised the allocation process, noting that plots meant for those in need of housing are now occupied by cafés operating from makeshift structures. Thoriq argued that the distribution of valuable land in Hulhumale’ and the modification of the master plan have resulted in significant financial losses for the State. He also highlighted issues with the reclamation of Hulhumale’ Phase 3, which he claimed led to inadequate docking space at the harbour.

Thoriq raised concerns about the fairness of the land distribution, comparing the high cost of some land plots, priced at MVR 14 million, with plots given away for free. He questioned the equity of the process, particularly for the 500,000 people in the Maldives, including 200,000 in Male’, who were not afforded the same opportunities.

He alleged that land worth MVR 8 billion was distributed free of charge, representing a substantial loss to the State. The issue of land plots was brought to the forefront during a parliamentary session where Dr Ali Haidar, Minister of Housing, Land and Urban Development, was questioned about the Binveriya housing scheme from the previous administration.

Following dissatisfaction with the Minister’s responses, opposition MDP members staged a protest. The Speaker of Parliament subsequently ordered four MDP MPs, including PG Leader Ibrahim Nazil, to leave the chamber. The sitting was adjourned due to their refusal to comply.