Solih Calls for Transparency Over Ras Malé Deal

Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has called for greater transparency over the government’s land allocation for the Ras Malé development, while urging the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) to rebuild public trust and address internal divisions.

Speaking at the opening of the MDP National Congress at Malé City Hall, Solih said the party did not oppose foreign investment or investment-linked residency visas when they are granted through established procedures, but questioned what he described as a lack of transparency surrounding the Ras Malé project.

Solih referred to the reclamation of Fushidhiggaru Falhu, where he said 1,010 hectares are being reclaimed and 500 hectares have reportedly been allocated to Eagle Hills without lease acquisition fees or rent.

“This Congress must call on the government and Eagle Hills to disclose full information,” Solih said.

He said the public should be able to determine the benefits to the state from the project, particularly given the reported public expenditure of approximately USD 700 million on the reclamation of 1,150 hectares at Fushidhiggaru Falhu.

Solih said the MDP should not support projects conducted through undisclosed agreements, including if the party returns to government.

The former president contrasted the arrangement with a project undertaken during his administration involving the Foththeyo lagoon in Vaavu Atoll. He said the lagoon was leased for a foreign-funded reclamation and domestic airport project, generating USD 43 million in revenue for the state.

He also criticised the current administration over the inclusion of a lagoon in Noonu Atoll within a Special Economic Zone, alleging that the decision resulted in the loss of revenue that had previously been guaranteed under the Tourism Act.

Solih also called on the MDP to focus on rebuilding its relationship with voters, saying the party must regain public confidence before it can return to government.

He said changing President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s administration was necessary to address the country’s current challenges, but acknowledged that the MDP first needed to earn the public’s trust.

“To gain that trust, we must listen to the people, acknowledge past mistakes, offer genuine solutions, respect one another, and most importantly, prove it through our actions,” Solih said.

He urged members to set aside internal divisions, consider new ideas and engage directly with different sections of society, including fishermen, farmers, teachers, healthcare workers, business owners and young graduates.

“No individual is bigger than this party, and no party is bigger than this nation,” he said.

Former President Mohamed Nasheed, who currently serves as MDP Chairperson, also addressed the opening ceremony and called for a change in the current government.